Probe Panel Alleges N117 Billion Misappropriation During Tambuwal's Governorship

A judicial commission of inquiry established by the Sokoto State government has asserted that approximately N117 billion was allegedly misappropriated under the administration of former Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal.

The commission formally submitted its report to the incumbent Governor Ahmed Aliyu at the Government House in Sokoto on a Tuesday.

The state government had initially formed this inquiry committee in July 2023, tasking it with investigating all land allocations and assets disposed of during Tambuwal's time as governor.

During the presentation of the report, the commission's chairman, retired Justice Mu’azu Abdulkadir Pindiga, explained that the panel reviewed extensive financial records, scrutinized pertinent documents, received public submissions, and heard testimonies from individuals and entities connected to the period under examination.

Justice Pindiga stated that the commission identified instances of alleged financial impropriety amounting to over N117 billion, emphasizing that these conclusions were supported by documentary evidence and witness accounts provided during the inquiry.

He assured that all parties involved were granted a fair hearing, and the entire process adhered strictly to the principles of justice, transparency, and the rule of law.

Governor Aliyu, upon receiving the report, commended the chairman and members of the commission for conducting what he described as a comprehensive, transparent, and diligent investigation.

He clarified that the commission's formation was not intended for retribution or witch-hunting, but rather to ascertain facts and protect the state's interests.

The governor indicated that a white paper committee would soon be formed to review the commission's findings and recommendations, paving the way for appropriate legal actions based on the law and due process.

Governor Aliyu reiterated his administration's dedication to upholding accountability, transparency, and the prudent management of public funds.

Attempts to solicit comments from the former governor were unsuccessful, as his phone was reportedly unreachable at the time of this report.

The commission had previously concluded its public hearings on January 16, 2025, following the former governor's failure to appear before it, despite multiple adjournments.

Tambuwal had been summoned to testify regarding nine submissions in which his name was mentioned, making him the primary witness.

Official records indicated that the former governor, represented by his counsel Usman O. Sule, SAN, consistently requested adjournments, citing national duties, including budget defence sessions at the National Assembly.

However, the lead counsel for the commission, Dr. Hassan Liman, SAN, opposed further delays, noting that the hearings had already been postponed numerous times to accommodate Tambuwal's schedule.

Justice Pindiga ultimately denied the request for another adjournment, concluding the public hearings and instructing relevant witnesses to submit their written testimonies within a fortnight.

In February 2024, Tambuwal had visited the commission's premises with his legal team, but the panel was not in session at that time.

Addressing journalists after that visit, the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, who now serves as the Senator for Sokoto South, stated that his public service record was self-evident and reaffirmed his commitment to the rule of law and democratic institutions.

He remarked, "Our track record of integrity in public service speaks for us, always."

"In leading the younger generation, we must instil in them utmost respect for the rule of law and constituted authorities."

"As citizens, we should realise that no one, no matter how highly placed, should be above the laws of the land, most specifically, the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This, amongst other things, brings out the beauty in democracy."

Parties and Civil Society Groups Respond

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the primary opposition party in Sokoto, stated it would reserve its comments until it had thoroughly reviewed the report's contents.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) dismissed the report as an effort to tarnish the reputation of a prominent figure within their coalition.

"No right-thinking person will agree with what they have said. It is a calculated attempt to smear the image of one of the national leaders of our coalition," stated the ADC state chairman, Bello Keagan.

Similarly, the chairman of the coalition of non-governmental organisations in Sokoto State, Comrade Bello Gwadabawa, indicated that civil society organisations would release their position after reviewing the report.

However, the Executive Director of the Community Centre for Development, Ibrahim Adamu Tudun Doki, welcomed the probe, noting the increasing demand for audits of previous administrations to bolster accountability and transparency in governance.

He suggested that the proposed white paper committee should comprise individuals of integrity and proven credibility from diverse backgrounds.