In a further demonstration of his administration’s people-centred approach, Governor Yusuf has approved the sum of N15.67 billion for the payment of outstanding severance allowances and gratuities owed to former councillors under the previous All Progressives Congress (APC) administration led by Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
The former councillors, who served for eight years under Governor Ganduje, had long awaited the entitlements, which were left unpaid despite the receipt of bailout funds by the previous government.
According to government officials, the decision to settle the liabilities reflects Yusuf’s inclusive approach to governance and his commitment to justice, irrespective of political affiliations.
“This rare magnanimity exemplifies politics without bitterness and underscores our administration’s commitment to fairness,” a senior government source stated.
This payment is part of a broader effort to offset over N40 billion in outstanding retirement and severance obligations inherited by Governor Yusuf’s administration. Already, over ₦20 billion has been cleared within the governor’s first two years in office.
Political observers note that the APC’s failure to honour these debts was a key factor in its loss during the 2024 gubernatorial election, with over 3,000 grassroots community leaders affected by the unpaid entitlements.
The decision to approve the payments was among several resolutions adopted during the 27th Executive Council Meeting of the Kano State Government, chaired by Governor Yusuf at the new Governor’s House in Kwankwasiyya City.
At the same meeting, the Council approved N51.57 billion for the execution of various key projects and programmes aimed at enhancing governance and improving the quality of life for Kano’s residents.
Governor Yusuf’s continued efforts to unify and uplift citizens, regardless of their political leanings, has bolstered his popularity among workers and grassroots leaders alike, with many hailing his leadership as a model of inclusive and responsive governance.