Top Govt official returns over N4.7m mistakenly credited to his account

In a display of integrity, Alhaji Lamin Muktar Hassan, the Deputy Managing Director of the Kano State Refuse Management and Environmental Agency (REMASAB), has returned over N4.7 million that was mistakenly transferred into his bank account by the state government.

Hassan, who was appointed by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, initially believed the funds were part of his January 2025 salary.

However, upon reviewing the transaction, he quickly realized that the amount was far more than the usual monthly payment he receives. The sum was over 85% higher than his standard salary.

The confusion arose after Hassan had experienced delays in receiving his salary.

In December 2024, he was paid arrears, and when the January 2025 payment was made, the same amount as the arrears was mistakenly deposited into his account—without his actual salary.

“I thought it was my January salary, but when I checked, I noticed the payment was identical to my December arrears and didn’t include my January pay. That’s when I knew something was wrong,” Hassan explained.

He immediately alerted the Ministry of Finance and the Accountant General’s Office about the error.

Acting swiftly, Hassan returned the entire sum and obtained a receipt, which he submitted to the Ministry of Finance as proof of the transaction.

Despite having less than 10% of the credited amount left in his account and not having received his January salary at the time, Hassan emphasized that doing the right thing was paramount.

“As a proud Kano indigene, I believe it is my responsibility to ensure that state funds are used properly,” he said.

Hassan’s swift and honest action has earned praise, highlighting his commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility in the management of state resources.