Ganduje’s Children Accused of Taking Over Kano’s ₦4bn Dry Port Project
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Fresh Allegations Rock Kano Politics
A detailed investigation has reportedly linked former Kano State Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje to the controversial transfer of Kano State Government’s 20 per cent equity in the Dala Inland Dry Port Limited to his children and associates. According to multiple sources cited by Akahi News, the ₦4 billion project—initially designed as a strategic trade hub for northern Nigeria—was quietly taken over through company restructuring, leaving the state without ownership rights despite heavy public investment.
How Kano Lost Its Stake
Records obtained by journalists revealed that Kano State originally acquired 20 per cent equity in the project in 2006 under the Ibrahim Shekarau administration as part of the Federal Government’s port development policy. The deal required the state to provide critical infrastructure at the site while retaining part ownership of the facility.
However, Akahi News gathered that under Mr Ganduje’s tenure, the state’s stake was gradually transferred to private individuals, including his children, before the government awarded contracts worth billions to firms linked to the new shareholders.
Contract Awards and Rising Controversy
Insiders told Akahi News that a ₦2.3 billion infrastructure contract, later revised to over ₦4 billion, was awarded to FRI Construction Limited—a firm allegedly tied to one of the new beneficiaries. Critics argue that this arrangement breached due process, as the State Executive Council and House of Assembly approvals were reportedly not secured before the divestment.
Observers have compared the move to similar political controversies across the country, raising concerns about conflict of interest, transparency, and the misuse of state assets.
Current Ownership Dispute
Kano’s current administration under Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has reportedly rejected the ownership changes, insisting the state never approved any sale of its shares. Officials confirmed to Akahi News that investigations are underway to establish how public assets allegedly ended up in private hands without official authorisation.
Calls for Accountability
Legal experts told Akahi News that divesting government shares in any public-private project requires open bidding, proper legislative approvals, and SEC compliance. Civil society groups are now demanding a probe to recover any unlawfully transferred assets and ensure full transparency in future public investments.
The Dala Inland Dry Port, commissioned in 2023, was intended to boost trade in northern Nigeria, but the current ownership crisis threatens to overshadow its economic potential. As allegations deepen, Akahi News will continue monitoring developments around this multi-billion-naira project.
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