The commissioner for transportation in Kano State, Ibrahim Namadi, has stepped down from his role.
His resignation came shortly after a probe panel accused him of standing surety for Sulaiman Danwawu, an alleged drug baron, “without due diligence.”
Governor Abba Yusuf had earlier set up the investigative panel to look into Namadi’s involvement in the controversial bail arrangement for the suspected drug trafficker.
The panel presented its findings to the governor on Tuesday at the government house in Kano.
Namadi cited “public interest” as the reason for his decision to resign.
“As a member of an administration that has consistently championed the fight against the sales and consumption of illicit drugs, it behoves me to take this step — painful as it may be,” his resignation letter read.
“While I maintain my innocence, I cannot ignore the weight of public perception and the need to protect the values we have collectively built.
“I must, as a good citizen, strive to protect, preserve, and uphold the trust and vision we have worked so hard to instil in our dear state. I remain loyal to the ideals that brought this administration into office.”
PANEL FINDINGS
In a statement on Wednesday, Sunusi Dawakin, spokesperson to Governor Yusuf, provided details of the probe panel’s conclusions. According to him, Namadi had submitted an application on July 18 to serve as surety for the suspect.
The report said Namadi deposed to an affidavit confirming he was a serving commissioner and promised to adhere to all bail requirements until the legal proceedings ended.
“He understood that only a serving Commissioner and member of the State Executive Council qualifies to stand surety under the court’s conditions,” the report stated.
The committee faulted Namadi for failing to conduct proper checks, stating that he “did not exercise adequate caution before taking the decision to stand surety for a defendant facing serious narcotics charges.”
It further noted: “The Committee found that he had both constructive and actual knowledge of the drug-related nature of the charges.”
“He was aware that the Kano State Government has a firm stance against drug trafficking, abuse, youth criminality, and related vices.”
The panel observed there was no indication that Namadi and the suspect had any prior relationship.
“The Committee found no indication that financial benefit or other incentives influenced the Commissioner’s action.”
“The Commissioner did not deposit any sum, including the reported N5,000,000, for the bail. That claim was solely based on the defendant’s affidavit.”
While receiving the panel’s report, Governor Yusuf reiterated his administration’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and integrity in public service.
He also reaffirmed the state’s commitment to tackling drug abuse and other social vices threatening the wellbeing of Kano’s youth.