The Kano State government has come under fire for instructing all 44 local government areas in the state to contribute a total of N670 million for the repairs and purchase of new vehicles for the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II. According to a memo issued by the Ministry of Local Government, each local government area is expected to contribute N15,227,272.72.

The directive, dated March 25, 2025, outlines the approval to repair two vintage vehicles and purchase four new ones for the Kano Emirate Council. The memo reveals that the funds would be used for the restoration and acquisition of high-end vehicles for the Emir, including a 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser VXR for N268 million and a 2024 Toyota Prado for N156 million.

The allocation of such a significant sum for the Emir’s vehicles has sparked widespread criticism, particularly as many residents in Kano are dealing with ongoing infrastructural challenges. Alhaji Alhassan Yaryasa, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), condemned the expenditure, calling it a “misplacement of priorities.”

“This is a complete wasteful expenditure,” Yaryasa said. “The Emir does not need new luxury cars while the masses suffer. The residents of Kano will not forgive this misuse of public funds.”

A palace official confirmed that the directive and the funds were legitimate, revealing that efforts are already underway to bring in the vehicles and begin the restoration of the vintage cars.

The controversy surrounding this directive is likely to impact Governor Abba Yusuf’s political standing, with calls for the governor to reconsider the decision and reallocate the funds to sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.