The New Nigerian People Party (NNPP)-led government of Kano State has alleged that the immediate past All Progressives Congress (APC) administration, under Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, left the state with a substantial debt burden, which may exceed N500 billion.
Deputy Governor Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo made this assertion during the North-West Zonal Meeting of NNPP held in Kaduna.
He noted that the debt, owed by the previous government, has hindered the smooth transition and operation of the NNPP government in Kano.
Deputy Governor Abdussalam, while highlighting the accomplishments of the NNPP government in Kano since taking office, assured party members that the government is committed to not disappointing the people of Kano.
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He said, “We came into office inheriting a government that left us with nothing but debt. Initially, it was N300 billion, but now it is approaching N500 billion, and we are still counting. Once we complete the assessment, we will inform Nigerians, especially our fellow Kano residents, about the total debt left behind.”
“Governor Yusuf ensured full payment of salaries to state workers and resolved outstanding issues and upon assuming office, he ordered the full payment of salaries which was not the case prior to our administration.
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“Furthermore, due to Governor Kabir Yusuf’s compassion, starting this month, the state will be disbursing retirement gratuities, especially the death benefits to families of deceased retirees. The first beneficiaries will be those from levels one to six, as they are junior staff who have suffered the most. We have allocated N6 billion for this purpose. The screening process is underway, and by the end of this month, many people will receive their death benefits and gratuities. This initiative will continue, and our goal is to clear all outstanding gratuities within the next two years.”