The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission says it has commenced an investigation into the alleged scam that characterised the recent disbursement of empowerment funds to street hawkers by Governor Abba Yusuf.

The commission’s chairman, Muhuyi Rimin-Gado, told journalists on Sunday in Kano that the commission was investigating the matter to identify and bring those responsible to justice.

“The commission is determined to prevent corruption from undermining the integrity of the government’s empowerment initiative and ensure that justice is served,” Mr Rimin Gado said.

The probe follows a viral video showing some officials allegedly coercing beneficiaries into surrendering a significant portion of the N50,000 grants each received during the disbursement ceremony.

Mr Yusuf had recently presented N50,000 each to 465 street hawkers to boost their businesses.

However, in a 60-second video, one of the beneficiaries, Nura Isa, alleged that officials coerced him to return N45,000 from the N50,000 cash given to him.

Mr Isa alleged that he was among about 100 beneficiaries cornered by officials who demanded that they comply “in their own interest.”

It was also gathered that most of those shortlisted to benefit from the scheme were denied access to the event venue while their benefits were handed over to impostors.

(NAN)