Kano assembly initiates impeachment proceedings against deputy governor

The Kano State House of Assembly has begun the process to impeach Deputy Governor Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, citing allegations of gross misconduct, abuse of office, and violation of public trust.

The impeachment notice was presented by Majority Leader Lawan Hussaini Dala during a plenary session, highlighting that this action is in accordance with Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended).

Dala outlined that the allegations date back to Abdussalam’s time as Commissioner for Local Government from 2023 to 2024 and include claims of misappropriating local government funds and committing impeachable offenses.

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It is alleged that while overseeing the 44 local government councils in the state, Abdussalam received monthly kickbacks of ₦1.5 million from each council from June 2023 to January 2024, totaling ₦462 million. Additionally, from February to July 2024, he reportedly collected ₦3.255 million per council each month for “special assignments,” bringing the total to ₦726 million.

The impeachment notice also accuses him of facilitating unauthorized payments of ₦10 million each from the councils to NovoMed Pharmaceuticals Limited, amounting to ₦440 million, which allegedly contravenes state procurement and financial regulations.

Dala emphasized that such misuse of power contradicts the responsibilities of public office and constitutes gross misconduct under Section 188(2) of the constitution.

He revealed that 38 lawmakers have endorsed the impeachment notice, exceeding the necessary threshold to proceed, and urged the Speaker to officially convey it to the deputy governor.

“Given these allegations, we resolve that Aminu Abdussalam, the Deputy Governor of Kano State, be impeached and removed from office according to Section 188 of the Constitution,” Dala stated.

Following the announcement, the Assembly members showed their support for the initiative. The Speaker recognized the notice and is expected to relay the charges to the deputy governor as required by constitutional procedure.

This development paves the way for a significant political confrontation in Kano State as the impeachment process unfolds.