Kano orders probe of sacked Head of Service over alleged ₦1.5bn salary deductions

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has ordered an investigation into the activities of the sacked Head of Service, Abdullahi Musa, over allegations that ₦1.5 billion was deducted from workers’ salaries.

The governor issued the directive on Friday while addressing civil servants during the International Workers’ Day celebration held at the Sani Abacha Stadium.

Yusuf said the probe became necessary following complaints of unauthorised deductions, assuring workers that his administration would prioritise their welfare and protect their earnings.

“Following the alleged deduction of ₦1.5 billion from workers’ salaries by the former Head of Service, I hereby order an investigation into the allegation,” the governor said, adding that his government remained committed to transparency and accountability.

The governor recently relieved Musa of his duties, though details surrounding the dismissal were not officially disclosed at the time.

On retirees’ welfare, Yusuf pledged to clear the outstanding ₦16 billion gratuity and death benefits before the end of his first term in 2027. He disclosed that his administration had already paid ₦32 billion out of the ₦48 billion backlog inherited from the previous government.

“We have been able to offset ₦32 billion, and by the grace of God, the remaining ₦16 billion will be cleared before the end of this tenure,” he said.

In his remarks, the Kano State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Kabir Inuwa, commended the governor for prompt salary payments and efforts to settle retirees’ entitlements.

He said the payments had restored dignity to workers who had dedicated years of service to the state, but urged the government to address salary disparities between state and local government employees.

The development comes amid renewed calls for improved labour conditions, with workers pressing for equitable pay structures and sustained commitment to their welfare.