Hisbah Board Demands Retraction Over Alleged N221m Theft Claim in Katsina

Gives 7-day ultimatum, threatens legal action against accuser

The Katsina State Hisbah Board has demanded an immediate retraction and public apology from Alhaji Jibrin Tanimu over what it described as “false and defamatory” allegations that the board stole N221 million from him.

In a letter dated March 29, 2026, and signed by its Secretary and Legal Adviser, Jabir Bello Esq, the board said Tanimu made the allegation following his arrest on March 10, 2026, at his residence in Katsina.

According to the board, Tanimu also relayed the claim to his legal representatives, who subsequently wrote to the Katsina State Government accusing the Hisbah of misappropriating the funds.

The board, however, dismissed the allegation as “entirely false, malicious, and without any factual basis,” accusing Tanimu of attempting to tarnish its reputation and mislead both the public and government authorities.

It further stated that the allegation had caused significant reputational damage to the institution and its officials.

Providing background to the arrest, the board alleged that Tanimu dishonestly obtained N10.2 million from three individuals — Aminu Ado Yakasai, Mas’udu Armaya’u Abbas, and Aminu Garba Yakubu — all residents of Kano State.

The board explained that the victims were introduced to Tanimu through a Hisbah personnel, who was later detained by a court in Kano. It added that the court ordered the Hisbah Board to produce Tanimu as a condition for granting bail to the personnel.

The Hisbah Board, therefore, issued a four-point demand, asking Tanimu to retract the allegation in writing, publish a public apology in at least two national newspapers, and desist from making further defamatory statements.

It also directed him to confirm compliance within seven days of receiving the letter.

The board warned that failure to comply would leave it with no option but to initiate legal proceedings, including claims for damages and injunctive relief.

Copies of the letter were sent to the Commissioner of Police, Katsina State Command; the Director of the State Security Service in Katsina; and the Governor of Katsina State.