A judicial commission of inquiry set up by the Sokoto State Government has alleged that more than ₦117 billion was misappropriated during the eight-year administration of former governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, citing widespread financial irregularities, abuse of office and persistent violations of procurement and financial regulations.

The commission submitted its report to the state government on Tuesday, marking the conclusion of months of investigations into the conduct of the previous administration.

Presenting the findings, the chairman of the commission, Hon. Justice Mu’azu Abdulkadir Pindiga (retd.), said the inquiry uncovered extensive non-compliance with due process, breaches of extant financial and procurement laws, and weak internal control mechanisms that enabled large-scale misuse of public funds.

Justice Pindiga explained that the commission was established to scrutinise the Tambuwal administration through verifiable documents and sworn testimonies, in line with constitutional provisions and the public interest.

“Our findings reveal widespread financial irregularities amounting to over ₦117 billion,” he said. “These were largely occasioned by disregard for procurement laws, weak financial controls and abuse of executive authority.”

According to him, the report is organised into five major sections, covering the background of the inquiry, testimonies received, detailed findings, recommendations, as well as a summary and conclusion intended to guide government action.

He disclosed that the commission examined contracts, payment records and financial documents, while also taking testimonies from witnesses drawn from relevant ministries, departments and agencies, as well as other stakeholders connected to the administration under review.

Justice Pindiga commended members of the commission for what he described as their dedication, professionalism and integrity throughout the assignment, noting that the task was carried out under intense public scrutiny.

He also thanked members of the public and institutions that cooperated with the inquiry, describing their participation as crucial to producing a report that would serve the long-term interests of Sokoto State.

The retired judge added that the submission of the report aligns with broader national efforts to strengthen democratic accountability, promote prudent management of public resources and restore citizens’ trust in governance.

Receiving the report, Governor Ahmed Aliyu expressed appreciation to members of the commission for what he described as their unwavering commitment and sacrifice in handling a sensitive and complex assignment.

The governor emphasised that the decision to set up the commission was not driven by political vendetta, but by constitutional responsibility and the need to uphold public trust.

“This exercise was never about witch-hunting,” Aliyu said. “It was about ascertaining facts, examining records and testimonies, and acting strictly based on evidence.”

Governor Aliyu further disclosed that the state government would constitute a committee to produce a white paper on the report, assuring that the process would be transparent, fair and guided by due process.

“All individuals mentioned in the report will be treated fairly. The white paper will reflect sincerity, objectivity and justice,” he assured.