Umar Namadi, the Governor of Jigawa State, has suspended Auwalu Sankara, the Commissioner of Special Duties, following allegations of improper conduct with a married woman.
The suspension, announced by Bala Ibrahim, the Secretary to the State Government, comes in the wake of claims made by the Kano State Hisbah Board.
The Hisbah Board, known for enforcing Islamic law in Kano State, reported that Mr Sankara was apprehended in an compromising situation with a married woman in an unfinished building. Abba Sufi, the board’s director-general, elaborated on the incident, stating, “The commissioner’s arrest followed a complaint by the woman’s brother-in-law, accusing Mr Sankara of improper conduct.”
Responding to these serious allegations, the Jigawa State government has taken swift action.
Mr Ibrahim emphasized the gravity of the situation, saying, “The suspension is a precautionary measure intended to facilitate a fair investigation. We take all allegations seriously and are dedicated to upholding the trust of Jigawa citizens in the government.”
Governor Namadi has established an investigative committee to delve deeper into the matter.
The committee, chaired by Mr Ibrahim himself, includes key government officials such as Sagir Ahmed, the Commissioner for Information, Youth, Sports and Culture, and Lawal Danzomo, the Commissioner for Basic Education.
The team has been given a two-week deadline to submit their findings.
“The reports caused embarrassment and degradation to the reputation of the State Government,” Mr Ibrahim stated, underlining the administration’s concern over the incident’s impact on public trust.
However, Mr Sankara has vehemently denied the accusations. In a statement, he declared, “I wish to categorically state that these allegations are entirely false, baseless, and malicious, aimed at tarnishing my reputation. I urge the general public to disregard this fabricated story, which has been concocted by certain political elements to damage my character and integrity.”
The suspended commissioner further asserted his respect for the institution of marriage, stating, “As a married man, I have the utmost respect for the institution of marriage and would never engage in actions that violate its sanctity. I remain committed to upholding the values and principles that I stand for.”
Mr Sankara has indicated his intention to pursue legal action against those responsible for spreading what he claims is false information.
“I am taking this matter seriously and will pursue legal action against those responsible for spreading this false information and attempting to cause harm to my person,” he affirmed.