The Chairman of Karu Local Government Area, Barrister Abubakar Madaki, has extended a “soft landing” offer to the embattled Speaker of the council’s Legislative Arm, Abubakar Abdulmalik, over allegations of diverting ₦1.820 million in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
According to a statement released on Thursday by the chairman’s media aide, Nathaniel Francis, the offer was made during a meeting at Madaki's residence, where Abdulmalik, accompanied by a delegation of stakeholders, sought leniency amid growing calls for his impeachment by residents accusing him of gross misconduct and impersonation.
The soft landing deal requires the Speaker, who represents Gurku/Kabusu Ward, to immediately refund the misappropriated funds to the council treasury.
Abdulmalik allegedly collected various sums from associations including the Bakery Association, traders at Koroduma Shopping Plaza, and the Wheelbarrow Association under the guise of tax collection, despite not being a designated revenue officer.
Additional unremitted funds were reportedly taken from the Yan Tomatoes market in Aso Road, Mararaba, and traders at Angwan Yan Katsinawa.
Efforts to reach the Speaker for a response have so far been unsuccessful. However, his media aide, Ahuma Sarki, confirmed the allegations.
The scandal has drawn sharp criticism from members of the Legislative Council. Some councilors, who condemned the Speaker’s actions, stated that his behavior has brought disrepute to the Legislative Arm and called for a thorough investigation not only into the ₦1.820 million IGR diversion but also into a separate allegation involving the embezzlement of ₦220,000 in Duty Tour Allowance (DTA).
Adding to the tension, Abdulmalik reportedly snubbed a formal invitation from the Council’s Revenue Committee for questioning.
The councilors have vowed to pursue disciplinary actions if Abdulmalik is found guilty, stating that public trust and accountability must be upheld within the local government system.
