In May 2024, our team visited Katsina Central in Katsina State to track the project titled “Provision of Solar Street Lights in Katsina Central Senatorial District,” which had received a total payment of N97 million to Aniset Integrated Services Ltd under the 2023 Federal Government Budget.
During our tracking efforts, we uncovered alarming discrepancies. Most of the streetlights were found installed within the residence of Senator Kabir Abdullahi Barkiya, the immediate past Senator in the GRA area of Katsina Metropolis, with only a handful situated outside his residence. This was particularly troubling as the budget clearly stated that the streetlights were intended for the entire senatorial district, endangering the lives of residents and leaving them in complete darkness after sunset.
In a country where insecurity is prevalent, these street lights play a crucial role in helping citizens navigate their way, providing a sense of security, especially at night. Recognizing the severity of this issue, we made a social media call to highlight this fraudulent act, urging the Independent Corrupt Practices & Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate and demanding that the implementing agency provide the public with details of this project.
The link to the post here
The ICPC responded, leading a team of operatives to confirm our findings. They took action and successfully recovered 13 solar street lights that had been diverted to the Senator’s residence, thereby denying the public access to these vital resources.
Today, we are pleased to report that these street lights have been reinstalled on the streets for public use, enhancing safety for all residents. This successful intervention shows the importance of accountability and transparency in public service, ensuring that resources meant for the public truly serve their intended purposes.
Story by Mustapha Sadiqq and Oluwatise Akinmutimi
