By Daniel Edu
The Kano State Public Complaint and Anti-Corruption Commission have lifted the seals on ten warehouses in Kano State, previously closed due to suspected hoarding of foodstuffs. The commission’s chairman, Muhyi Magaji, disclosed that the owners were interrogated and instructed to open the warehouses for public sale.
As a result of this intervention, Kano has witnessed a decline in foodstuff prices. Magaji stated, “The commission’s actions compelled dealers to release the commodities to markets, leading to a reduction in prices.” Market visits, including Dawanau International Grains Market, Singer Market, and Kwari Market, confirmed the positive impact, with reduced grain prices observed in neighboring states.
During the operation, the warehouses were found stocked with various food items, and owners were notified to face legal charges for their alleged illegal activities. Magaji emphasized that this operation significantly contributed to controlling the surge in grain and essential commodity prices in the state.
In response to the anti-graft agency’s warning, grain traders at Dawanau International Grains Market voluntarily lowered prices. The agency had previously threatened legal action against dealers engaged in hoarding grains for profit maximization.
Subsequently, the price of a bag of maize dropped from N60,000 to approximately N53,000. Guinea corn prices reduced to N49,000 from N55,000, while millet, once priced at N60,000 per bag, now costs N53,000. Bean prices range between N85,000 and N90,000, compared to the previous range of N95,000 to N100,000, depending on quality.
Customs Seizes Four Smuggling Trucks Loaded With Food Items in Kano
Earlier, the Kano Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service intercepted four trucks carrying smuggled food items along the Hadejia-Taura-Ringim axis in Jigawa. The seized items included 1,505 cartons of dried fish, 17 bags of local rice, and two bags of beans, intended for illegal export.
According to Saidu Nuradeen, the spokesperson for the service, this seizure underscores the commitment to enforcing border closure policies to protect the nation’s economy and ensure food security. Nuradeen emphasized the need for public cooperation in providing information to combat smuggling, reiterating the service’s dedication to curbing illicit activities and safeguarding local industries for enhanced food security.
