Kano State — In a move that has sparked controversy and debate, the Kano State government has earmarked N99.9 million for the renovation of the Nassarawa mini palace, where the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, currently resides.
This decision was announced by the State’s Commissioner of Information, Halilu Dantiye, following a State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Abba Yusuf.
The allocated funds are intended for the renovation of the defective wall or fence and the surrounding areas at the Nassarawa Emir’s Palace.
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This allocation comes amidst the ongoing Kano Emirate tussle, which has seen the government order the Commissioner of Police to evict the 15th Emir from the palace, citing trespass on government property and the need for demolition and renovation.
The total sum of N8.6 billion was approved for various projects across the state, including health, education, water supply, agriculture, and infrastructure.
Other notable allocations include the construction of a Post Midwifery Institute, the rehabilitation of water supply infrastructure at the government house, and the procurement of essential drugs and welcome packs for newborns.
However, the allocation for the palace renovation has drawn criticism from the Kano-based group War Against Injustice (WAI).
The group’s Executive Director, Comrade Umar Ibrahim, described the allocation as a misallocation of resources and called on the government to prioritize the welfare of the common man over the interests of the elite.
He urged the government to reconsider the decision and redirect the funds towards projects that benefit the majority of the population.
Despite the controversy, the government has defended its decision, stating that these projects aim to enhance the state's infrastructure, healthcare, education, and security.
The debate over the allocation continues as the state moves forward with its plans to renovate the Nassarawa mini palace.
