The Jigawa State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission has successfully recovered over N300 million in stolen public funds between August 2024 and February 2025. The announcement was made by the commission’s chairman, Barrister Salisu Abdu, during a sensitization workshop for public and civil servants held at the Manpower Development Institute in Dutse on Wednesday, February 26, 2025.
Barrister Abdu revealed that the recovered funds were part of the commission’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption and address financial mismanagement within the state. Since its establishment under the Public Complaint and Anti-Corruption Law No. 1 of 2022, and its inauguration by Governor Umar Namadi in February 2024, the commission has worked tirelessly to restore public trust and safeguard state resources. “This recovery of over N300 million is a milestone in our mission to ensure that public funds serve the people of Jigawa State,” Abdu stated.
The chairman disclosed that the commission has received more than 200 complaints from the public over the past year, resolving approximately 75% of them. These complaints, ranging from financial irregularities to land disputes, have been addressed through a combination of investigations, out-of-court settlements, and preventive measures. “Our approach is proactive—we aim to prevent corruption before it takes root, while also ensuring justice where breaches occur,” Abdu explained.
Among the notable actions taken by the commission, several local government council chairmen—both former and serving—have been summoned for questioning regarding allegations of mismanagement in their jurisdictions. “We have invited five former council chairmen and several serving ones to account for complaints lodged against them,” Abdu said, emphasizing that the commission operates strictly within the legal framework of its mandate.
The recovered N300 million is a testament to the commission’s dual role of resolving public grievances and tackling corrupt practices. Abdu highlighted that land-related disputes have been a significant focus, constituting a large portion of resolved cases. To further strengthen its efforts, the commission has embarked on public enlightenment campaigns to educate citizens and civil servants on the dangers of corruption and the importance of accountability.
Speaking at the workshop, Abdu reiterated the commission’s commitment to supporting the state government by plugging financial leakages and boosting internally generated revenue. “Our work is not just about punishment—it’s about building a system where resources are used effectively for the benefit of all,” he noted.
The Jigawa State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission has also sought collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to enhance its investigative and prosecutorial capacities. This partnership, Abdu believes, will further bolster the state’s fight against economic crimes.
Governor Umar Namadi has yet to comment publicly on the recovery, but officials close to the administration have hailed the commission’s efforts as a critical step toward good governance. As the commission continues its work, residents of Jigawa State are hopeful that these recoveries will translate into tangible improvements in public services and infrastructure.
The successful recovery of over N300 million marks a promising chapter in Jigawa’s anti-corruption journey, signaling a renewed dedication to upholding the rule of law and protecting the state’s resources for future generations.
