“Controversy Unveiled: Ex-Tambuwal Commissioner Speaks on ₦16.1 Billion Allegations”

Babatunji Wusu –

– Dasuki claims he only knew of ₦1.5 billion out of the alleged ₦16.1 billion diversion.
– The shares transaction was conducted directly with Government House, excluding his office.
– He received approval to raise ₦2 billion but only ₦1.5 billion was deposited into the accountant general’s account.
– The total value of shares sold was reportedly over ₦3 billion.

Abdussamad Dasuki, the former Commissioner for Finance in Sokoto State under former Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, testified before a commission of inquiry regarding the alleged diversion of ₦16.1 billion raised from shares by the Sokoto State Investment Company. He stated that he was only aware of ₦1.5 billion in the funds.

Dasuki explained that the shares were dealt directly between the Sokoto Investment Company and Government House, without his office’s involvement. He noted that he had been informed by the managing director of the investment company that the total value of the shares sold was over ₦3 billion.

He also clarified that his office had received approval from the governor to raise ₦2 billion for state projects, including salaries and legacy projects. However, only ₦1.5 billion was deposited into the accountant general’s account in two installments—₦1 billion initially and ₦500 million later. He concluded, “To the best of my knowledge, that is all I am aware of regarding this matter.”