Jigawa State Dismisses 22 Vendors Over Alleged Fraud in Ramadan Feeding Programme

The Jigawa State Government has dismissed 22 food vendors and companies participating in its Ramadan feeding programme after investigations uncovered alleged misconduct and irregularities in the handling of the initiative designed to support vulnerable residents during the holy month.

The action follows complaints from beneficiaries and monitoring reports indicating that some vendors failed to meet the required standards in the quantity and quality of meals provided under the programme.

The government said the move reflects its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the protection of public resources allocated for humanitarian purposes.

Investigation Uncovers Irregularities in Feeding Programme

The Ramadan feeding programme, initiated by Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi, was designed to provide free meals to vulnerable citizens during the fasting period. The initiative targets approximately 7.9 million beneficiaries across 640 feeding centres located throughout the state.

However, less than two weeks after the programme began, monitoring teams and supervisory reports reportedly uncovered significant irregularities involving several vendors contracted to supply food at various centres. These findings emerged following public complaints from beneficiaries who alleged poor service delivery.

Authorities noted that the violations ranged from the supply of incomplete meal packages to substandard food quality and irregular financial practices.

Jigawa State Government Takes Disciplinary Action

In response to the findings, the Jigawa State Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Special Duties announced the immediate dismissal of 22 vendors and companies linked to the programme. The Commissioner for the ministry, Auwalu Sankara, said the affected contractors were removed for gross misconduct and mismanagement of public funds.

According to the commissioner, the government maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy for actions that undermine the objectives of the humanitarian programme, especially during Ramadan when many vulnerable residents rely on such initiatives for daily meals.

He emphasised that the decision demonstrates the administration’s resolve to protect public resources and ensure that the intended beneficiaries receive adequate support during the fasting period.

Replacement Vendors and Programme Continuity

The Jigawa state government also confirmed that efforts are underway to replace the dismissed vendors with contractors capable of meeting the programme’s standards and responsibilities. Officials said the goal is to prevent disruption to the feeding programme and maintain consistent service across the feeding centres.

Authorities further assured residents that monitoring and oversight mechanisms would continue throughout the Ramadan period to ensure compliance with operational guidelines. The government reiterated that the welfare of the people remains its priority and that corrective actions would be taken whenever necessary.

Officials added that the initiative remains a critical social support scheme intended to provide relief to low-income households during Ramadan.