The Jigawa State Government has cancelled its contract with DIYA SWEETS, the main vendor overseeing the Ramadan Feeding Programme in Guri Local Government Area, due to allegations of financial misconduct.
Hon. Auwal D. Sankara (Fica), the Commissioner for Special Duties, revealed in a statement to newsmen that the vendor withheld ₦72,000 from the ₦672,000 designated for a three-day payment to sub-vendors, despite repeated warnings to address the issue.
“Following multiple opportunities to rectify the situation, DIYA SWEETS refused to release funds owed to sub-vendors.
“Consequently, the government has decided to permanently terminate its involvement in the programme within Guri LGA,” Sankara stated.
The government has ordered the immediate refund of the withheld amount to the affected sub-vendors and cautioned that legal action will be taken if the directive is ignored.
Additionally, the vendor has been instructed to return all programme-related documents and materials.
Emphasizing the administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability, Sankara noted that the move was necessary to safeguard public funds and maintain the integrity of the programme.
Meanwhile, Governor Umar Namadi has approved ₦4.8 billion to fund the 2025 Ramadan Feeding Programme, which will be implemented in 630 centres across the state.