Jigawa State Government Takes Action Against Ramadan Feeding Scandal
The Jigawa State Government has taken decisive action by dismissing 22 vendors and companies implicated in a scandal surrounding the ongoing Ramadan Iftar programme. This move comes in response to serious allegations of cheating, misrepresentation of food quality and quantity, and questionable financial practices that have marred the initiative designed to provide meals for vulnerable residents during the holy month.
Background of the Ramadan Iftar Programme
Recall that Governor Umar Namadi initiated the ambitious Ramadan Iftar programme, which aimed to provide relief and nutritious meals to vulnerable citizens during the 2026 Ramadan period. The programme targeted an impressive 7.9 million beneficiaries across 640 free meal centres strategically located throughout the state. This initiative was part of the government's commitment to supporting those in need during the sacred month of fasting and reflection.
Discovery of Misconduct and Government Response
However, just two weeks into the programme's implementation, a comprehensive supervisory report and field monitoring exercise uncovered serious misconduct by several vendors and companies. These findings came to light following numerous public complaints about the quality and distribution of meals. The State Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Special Duties responded swiftly to these revelations, dismissing those suspected to be involved in the scandal.
In a statement made available to journalists in Dutse on Friday, the Jigawa State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Special Duties, Auwalu Sankara, explained that the dismissals were attributed to gross misconduct, mismanagement of public funds, and poor handling of the programme. The commissioner emphasized that these actions were taken as part of efforts to promote transparency and accountability in the government initiative.
List of Dismissed Vendors and Companies
The statement provided a detailed list of the affected individuals and entities, which included:
- Haruna Ladan Inv. and Property (Jahun LGA)
- Musa A. Jibrin (Gwiwa 1, Jahun LGA)
- Nura Yahaya (Chukuto Ward, Taura LGA)
- Usman Umar Malam (Sarawa 1, Kafin Hausa LGA)
- Muhammad Suleiman (Sarawa 2, Kafin Hausa LGA)
- Musa Salisu (Zago 1, Kafin Hausa LGA)
- Dauda Yusuf (Zago 2, Kafin Hausa LGA)
- Lurwanu Alhassan (Unguwar Ya 1, Birnin Kudu LGA)
- Ashiru Kamisu (Danladi 1, Sule Tankarkar LGA)
- Shuaibu Muhammad (Danladi 2, Sule Tankarkar LGA)
- Muhammad Abdullahi (Jeke 1, Sule Tankarkar LGA)
- Jafaru Magaji (Amanga 1, Sule Tankarkar LGA)
Additional dismissed parties included:
- Sulaiman Shuaibu (Yayari 1, Hadejia LGA)
- Badamasi Umar (Yayari 2, Hadejia LGA)
- Danbaba Nasallah (Matsaro 1, Hadejia LGA)
- Fatima Abdulaziz (Yankoli 1, Hadejia LGA)
- Ibrahim Sulaiman (Yankoli 2, Hadejia LGA)
- Yusuf Wada (Jahun)
- Haruna Yau and Aisha Garba (Malam Madori)
- Babannan Baffa (Guri)
- Amina Abdullahi (Gwaram)
Government's Commitment to Standards and Accountability
Commissioner Sankara reiterated the government's unwavering commitment to maintaining high standards throughout the programme. "Our commitment to standards remains unwavering," he declared, emphasizing that the administration would not compromise on standards or allow any deviation from its policies, especially during the sacred month of Ramadan.
"We are already in the process of substituting these individuals with deserving contractors," Sankara added, indicating that the government is taking proactive steps to ensure the programme continues without disruption. He stressed that the administration has prioritized the welfare of the people of Jigawa State above all else.
Protecting Public Funds and Ensuring Welfare
"The dismissals demonstrate the government's resolve to protect public funds, and the welfare of the people of Jigawa remains our highest priority," Sankara stated firmly. He acknowledged that "the people of Jigawa deserve better" and assured the public that the government would ensure accountability and continue to serve the people with integrity and dedication.
The commissioner concluded by thanking Governor Namadi for his support and leadership, adding that "the government will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the success of the programme." This decisive action against corruption in the Ramadan feeding programme sends a strong message about the government's commitment to transparency and proper management of public resources.
