More details have emerged regarding the suspension of the chairmen of Rogo, Bebeji, and Bagwai local government councils by the Kano State House of Assembly.

According to the Majority Leader, Lawan Hussaini Dala, the action was prompted by multiple petitions alleging financial and administrative misconducts.

Daily Trust reports that the Assembly suspended Abubakar Mustapha (Rogo), Dr. Alhassan Salisu (Bebeji), and Bello Gadanya (Bagwai) following the adoption of a report by the House Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs during plenary.

Speaking exclusively with Daily Trust, the House Majority Leader said the Assembly received petitions from a wide range of stakeholders, including community groups, civil society organisations, and elected councillors from the affected local government areas.

He explained that the House Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs subjected the petitions to preliminary scrutiny by examining financial and administrative records obtained from the councils and holding interactive sessions with key local government officials before recommending the suspension of the three chairmen.

According to him, the petitions alleged financial misappropriation, abuse of office, breach of public trust, fraud, and other administrative infractions.

The chairmen were also accused of incompetence in managing the affairs of their councils and diverting public funds for personal interests.

“The investigation is far from over,” Dala said, adding that the committee would widen its probe by inviting all relevant stakeholders to present evidence and defend their positions before arriving at its final recommendations.

He explained that, in line with the Assembly’s constitutional oversight powers, the House directed the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to ensure the immediate handover of leadership to the vice chairmen pending the outcome of the investigation.

Dala disclosed that the committee has three months to complete its assignment and submit its report to the Assembly, after which lawmakers will determine whether the allegations against the suspended chairmen have been established or whether they should be cleared.

He urged residents of the affected councils and other stakeholders to remain calm and allow the committee to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation without interference.

Our correspondent could not reach any of the suspended chairmen as of press time last night. (Daily Trust)

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