The Chief Press Secretary to the Kano State Governor, Malam Mustapha Muhammad, has been widely commended for returning an excess allowance of SR6,000, equivalent to about N2.4 million, which was mistakenly paid to him during the distribution of allowances to members of the media team covering the 2026 Hajj exercise in Saudi Arabia.

The overpayment was reportedly discovered during the disbursement of allowances to journalists and media personnel assigned to cover Kano State’s Hajj operations in the Holy Land.

According to reports, Malam Mustapha promptly refunded the money after realising that he had received more than his rightful entitlement due to an administrative error.

Speaking on the development, the governor’s spokesman said returning the excess payment was necessary to ensure proper reconciliation of records and facilitate the payment of other beneficiaries who had yet to receive their allowances.

Mustapha, who led the Kano media delegation covering Hajj activities in Saudi Arabia, stressed that transparency and fairness demanded that the mistake be corrected immediately.

His action has attracted praise from colleagues, government observers, and officials involved in the Hajj exercise, many of whom described him as a shining example of honesty, accountability, and ethical conduct in public service.

Receiving the refunded amount, the Amirul Hajj and Emir of Gaya, Dr Aliyu Ibrahim Abdulkadir, lauded the gesture, describing it as a demonstration of integrity, fairness, and a strong sense of responsibility.

He noted that, at a time when public officials are being encouraged to uphold transparency and accountability, such actions serve as a reminder that integrity remains a core value among some public servants.

The Amirul Hajj further stated that the refund not only reinforced Mustapha Muhammad’s reputation for honesty but also ensured that other members of the media team received their rightful entitlements without delay or complications.

Observers said the development has further strengthened confidence in the management of Kano State’s Hajj operations and highlighted the importance of accountability in the handling of public resources. (TRIBUNE)