The Peoples Democratic Party in Kebbi State has called for a thorough investigation into the alleged fraudulent activities in the disbursement of NG-Cares, also known as ‘Kaura Cares’ in the state.

The Secretary of the party, Abubakar Bawa-Kalgo, made the call in a statement to journalists in Binrin Kebbi on Tuesday.

He said, “The fraudulent activities were initially disclosed by the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Alhaji Yakubu Ahmed-BK in a statement issued on September 4, 2024. The PDP urges the Kebbi State government and the anti-corruption agencies to publicly reveal the individuals involved in the fraudulent action. The party is disturbed by the state government’s failure to take action against the identified charlatans or disclose their identities to the public.’’

Mr Bawa-Kalgo emphasised the need for an internal investigation as only officials involved in the disbursement had access to the accounts and bank details of the 65,000 registered beneficiaries.

He stated, “The PDP questions the commissioner’s statement and suspects a possible cover-up of top government officials involved in the fraud. The PDP expresses disappointment that a programme meant to support the poor and vulnerable has been exploited by those entrusted with its management to the detriment of the intended beneficiaries.’

Mr Bawa-Kalgo also called on the World Bank, Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, National Social Safety Administration, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission to conduct a thorough evaluation of the Kebbi components of NG-Cares.

“This is to uncover any fraudulent activities and mismanagement of funds by those responsible for its administration in the state,” the secretary said.

Recall that on August 26, the Kebbi Government had launched the disbursement of N6.5 billion to 65,000 people under ‘Kaura Cares’ of Livelihood Support Programme in the state.

The state governor, Nasir Idris, inaugurated the disbursement by operating a Point of Sale machine to hit the accounts of the beneficiaries.

(NAN)