Emir tussle: Kano Gov. bans public demonstrations, orders arrests of protesters; Meets NSA Ribadu for peace talks

In a decisive move to maintain public order, Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has officially banned all public demonstrations within the state. This directive was announced on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, via a statement from the governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Tofa.

Governor Yusuf, invoking his role as the chief security officer of Kano State, has instructed the Police, the Directorate of State Security Services, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps to immediately apprehend anyone participating in street protests. The governor emphasised that this stringent measure is necessary to prevent any potential disruptions to public order.

The governor’s office cited “credible intelligence” indicating that certain opposition figures are allegedly planning to incite chaos by sponsoring student associations and political agitators from other northwestern states. These actions are purportedly intended to advocate for the dethroned Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero.

The state government’s statement made it clear: “The state government has explicitly outlawed protests, demonstrations, or processions of any kind, and individuals found on the streets of Kano engaging in such activities will be promptly apprehended.” Governor Yusuf’s directive underscores a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of public dissent.

Governor Yusuf appealed to the citizens of Kano to continue their daily activities without fear, assuring them of the state’s stability. He urged student groups to avoid being manipulated by troublemakers seeking to create disorder. “We caution student groups against being manipulated by troublemakers who are resolute in fomenting disorder in Kano,” the governor emphasised.

Sanusi Tofa reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining peace in the state. “Through this declaration, we urge all citizens to carry on with their normal activities as the state retains its tranquillity, and the government will persist in vigilant oversight of the situation to promptly address any individuals or factions trying to undermine the relative peace the state presently enjoys,” Tofa stated.

Meanwhile, Governor Yusuf has met with the National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, in Abuja to address the ongoing crisis surrounding the Kano Emir’s stool. The aim of the meeting was to find a resolution to the crisis and restore peace in the state.

After an hour-long discussion with Ribadu, Governor Yusuf took to his personal X (formerly Twitter) handle to express that the meeting was fruitful. He emphasised the critical role of Ribadu in ensuring the harmonious existence of the nation and briefed him on the recent developments in Kano.

The meeting was prompted by recent events in Kano, including the dissolution of five emirates by the Kano State House of Assembly and the subsequent restoration of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II by the governor. The discussion between Yusuf and Ribadu also addressed accusations made against Ribadu regarding his alleged involvement in the crisis, which were retracted and apologized for by Kano State Deputy Governor Aminu Gwarzo.

During their discussions, Yusuf and Ribadu deliberated on matters relating to state and national developments and the peaceful coexistence of citizens. The retraction of the allegations against Ribadu was made in recognition of his respected professional background and integrity.

The Kano State Governor wrote on X: “His (Ribadu’s) role is critical for the harmonious existence of our nation. So, I briefed him on the recent developments in Kano.

“I had a fruitful engagement with the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, this afternoon in Abuja.”

Coinciding with the meeting, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II has continued to stay at the Kano palace, where a majority of district heads and kingmakers have pledged their allegiance and loyalty to the newly consolidated Kano Emirate under his leadership.

Additionally, the Emir appointed Hamisu Sani as the new Ward Head of Kofar Mazugal in Dala Local Government Area of the state.