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Ganduje, New FAAN Chairman Once Filmed Pocketing $230,000 Alleged Kickback as Kano Gov

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Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the former governor of Kano State, who was once caught on video allegedly receiving bribes from contractors, has now been appointed as the Chairman of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). This appointment, announced by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Information and Strategy, has reignited debates about accountability and integrity in public office. 

The 2018 viral video, published by Daily Nigerian, showed Ganduje allegedly pocketing $230,000 in bribes from contractors in what was described as part of a $5 million kickback scheme. The video, analysed and authenticated by multiple media outlets, sparked outrage. Despite Ganduje’s vehement denials, claiming the footage was “cloned” to tarnish his reputation, the incident has remained a stain on his public image.

During his tenure as governor, Ganduje was no stranger to controversy, but he also prided himself on infrastructural development and political manoeuvring that solidified his influence within the All Progressives Congress (APC). His rise to become the party’s National Chairman only deepened questions about how alleged corrupt practices could coexist with political advancement in Nigeria.

The FAAN, tasked with overseeing the nation’s airports, represents a critical infrastructure agency requiring impeccable leadership. Critics argue that Ganduje’s appointment undermines Nigeria’s anti-corruption rhetoric, particularly as President Tinubu’s administration promised to usher in a new era of transparency.

Human rights activist Aisha Bello lamented, “What message does this send to Nigerians? That integrity and accountability are negotiable when political loyalty is at stake?” Similarly, the appointment has drawn backlash on social media, with many questioning the government’s commitment to combating corruption.

However, Ganduje’s supporters paint a different picture, arguing that his experience as a two-term governor qualifies him to oversee FAAN’s operations. “Leadership is about results, not unverified allegations,” said Mallam Musa Abubakar, a party stalwart in Kano.

This development revives a recurring narrative in Nigerian politics, where individuals with questionable pasts continue to find themselves in positions of authority. It leaves Nigerians wondering: Is this a case of redemption, or simply business as usual?

As the controversy unfolds, one undeniable truth remains—public trust in leadership cannot thrive without accountability. Whether Ganduje’s appointment will serve as an opportunity for redemption or deepen scepticism about governance in Nigeria is a story that only time will tell.

Read Also: New Minimum Wages: Nigerian Civil Servants Still Earn Less than Some African Countries’ Unskilled Workers

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