The Department of State Security Services (DSS) has apprehended Alhaji Nasir Lawal, the Special Adviser on Infrastructure to Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State, along with several state government officials and traders. They are accused of diverting rice palliatives intended for vulnerable residents of the state.
The DSS’s operation led to the impoundment of 2,000 bags of rice at the Central Market in Katsina.
The consignment was allegedly linked to Alhaji Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development.
An additional 800 bags were also seized, with authorities currently interrogating other officials to trace their origin.
The action followed a tip-off from concerned citizens who reported suspicious nocturnal activities involving trucks unloading large quantities of grains.
The DSS responded promptly, uncovering the stored palliatives meant for distribution to those in need.
According to a distribution list obtained by a reliable source, Alhaji Ahmed Musa Dangiwa was allocated 1,200 bags of rice to distribute to less privileged individuals.
However, the Principal Private Secretary to Governor Dikko Radda explained that the minister had entrusted the bags to his aides for “safekeeping” in a warehouse.
Further complicating the issue, the Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah wa Iqamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS) received 6,000 bags of rice for its members, but these also have not reached the intended beneficiaries.
When approached for comments, the public relations officer of JIBWIS stated he was unaware of the rice allocation and referred inquiries to other officials.
