Governor Yusuf Champions Equity: Pays Kano's Former APC Councillors Gratuity Over N16 Billion -

KANO WATCH | PUBLIC EYE NEWS

By Hassan Kano

KANO STATE | NIGERIA In a significant demonstration of his administration’s commitment to “justice, fairness, and equity,” Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, on Wednesday, May 28th, 2025, initiated the payment of over N16 billion in long-overdue gratuities and allowances. This landmark decision will benefit former All Progressives Congress (APC) councillors who served between 2014 and 2024, as well as current political office holders across the state’s 44 Local Government Councils.

The move by the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) led government is being hailed as a significant step towards reconciliation and upholding the dignity of public service, irrespective of political affiliation. Governor Yusuf, speaking at a flag-off ceremony in Kano, emphasized that the payment is “not a privilege but a right and a show of appreciation” for their service to the state.

A Departure from Past Practices: Special Report

This development marks a notable departure from the stance of the previous APC administration, which Governor Yusuf stated had “denied the former Local Government legislators their right.” He recounted that the decision to clear the backlog for all former councillors, regardless of party, received unanimous approval from the state executive council. “It was not right to deny people their rights especially after serving their people diligently,” Governor Yusuf asserted, highlighting his administration’s resolve to differ from past practices. “We can’t toe this line.”

The comprehensive payment covers outstanding gratuity, accommodation, leave/recess, housing, and furniture allowances that had remained unpaid for years. Beneficiaries include former APC councillors, vice-chairmen, chairmen, supervisory councillors, and special advisers who served across the 484 wards of Kano’s 44 local government councils.

The disbursement has been structured in three phases to ensure orderly and efficient payment:

Tranche A (2014–2017): ₦1.8 billion for 903 beneficiaries, with disbursement commencing immediately.

Tranche B (2018–2020): ₦5.6 billion for 1,198 beneficiaries, scheduled for payment between May and July 2025.

Tranche C (2021–2024): ₦8.2 billion for 1,371 beneficiaries, to be disbursed between August and November 2025.

Furthermore, an additional ₦1.27 billion has been allocated and is currently being disbursed to cover housing and furniture allowances for current elected and appointed political office holders in all local government councils.

More Than Financial Transactions: A Commitment to Values

Governor Yusuf underscored the deeper significance of the payments. “They are an expression of our values that service must be respected, commitments must be honoured and leadership must be accountable,” he declared. This action is widely seen as a move to foster a more inclusive political environment in Kano and to reassure public servants that their welfare is a priority.

The Governor extended his gratitude to all involved in the verification and payment process, including verification teams, finance officers, oversight committees, and administrative coordinators, for their meticulous efforts.

In his concluding remarks, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf issued a “rallying call for continued unity and support,” urging all stakeholders to “work together to build a more prosperous and inclusive Kano State. With pride in our collective effort and confidence in our shared future, I hereby launch the first phase of these payments.”

This initiative by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf is not just about settling financial obligations; it’s a profound statement on governance, accountability, and the importance of valuing public service, setting a commendable precedent in Kano State’s political landscape.