Former Governor Ganduje Rejects Arrest Call as Politically Motivated
Former Kano State governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje has strongly dismissed the state government's call for his arrest, describing the demand as reckless and without any factual basis. The former APC National Chairman stated that the position taken by Governor Abba Yusuf's administration reflects desperation and poor governance.
Accusations of Neglecting Insecurity Crisis
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Ganduje considered the move an attempt to shift attention away from the state government's failures in addressing the escalating insecurity across Kano. He specifically accused Governor Yusuf of neglecting communities affected by rising violence, mentioning areas such as Bagwai, Shanono, and Tsanyawa where residents are living in constant fear.
The statement emphasized that Governor Yusuf has neither visited these affected communities nor shown empathy toward the victims during this critical period. According to Ganduje's camp, this continued absence in moments requiring leadership demonstrates a clear disconnect from the people he claims to serve.
Defending His Eight-Year Record
The former governor's media office defended his eight-year record in office, stating that Ganduje had never been associated with violence or any activity capable of destabilizing Kano. They highlighted that his administration was marked by relative calm and received commendation from security institutions that collaborated with his government.
Olofu maintained that there's a clear difference in approach between Ganduje's leadership and the present administration. He emphasized that the former governor focused on keeping residents safe and ensured effective collaboration with federal security agencies throughout his tenure from 2015 to 2023.
The statement described the allegations against Ganduje as unfounded and politically motivated, aimed at using political messaging to cover governance gaps. It noted that insecurity continues to affect numerous communities that require constant reassurance and practical intervention rather than political statements.
Call for Focus on Governance
Ganduje urged Governor Yusuf to prioritize his constitutional duty of protecting lives and property instead of engaging in what he called baseless accusations that offer no solution to the state's security challenges. He emphasized that genuine leadership requires deliberate action and empathy, not media briefings designed to change public conversation.
According to the statement released on November 29, 2025, Ganduje believes the current administration should invest its energy in restoring confidence among residents affected by rising insecurity. He stressed that the people need visible steps toward safety and practical solutions rather than political statements targeted at perceived opponents.
The development comes amid ongoing security challenges in various parts of Kano State, with residents expecting concrete actions from both state and federal authorities to address the situation effectively.
