Former Kano State Governor and immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has strongly condemned the Kano State Government's demand for his arrest, describing it as reckless and baseless.
Political Clash Over Security Comments
In a statement released through his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Ganduje accused Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf's administration of desperation and incompetence in handling the state's security challenges. The former governor insisted that the call for his arrest represents an attempt to divert public attention from the government's failure to protect lives and property across Kano State.
The political confrontation emerged after Ganduje made remarks that the state government interpreted as proposing the establishment of a faith-based security outfit called Khairul Nas. Officials claimed these comments suggested recruiting 12,000 youths into what they described as an illegal militia group.
Escalating Insecurity in Northern Communities
Meanwhile, communities in Kano's northern border areas, including Bagwai, Shanono, and Tsanyawa, continue to suffer repeated attacks by armed bandits. These violent incidents have involved village raids, resident killings, family abductions, and livestock theft, creating widespread fear among local populations.
The Kano State House of Assembly recently passed resolutions urging stronger security deployments as the attacks intensified, highlighting the growing concern about the security situation in these affected regions.
Ganduje specifically criticized Governor Yusuf for not visiting these troubled communities or showing empathy to residents living in constant fear. "His absence in moments that demand leadership speaks volumes of his disconnect from the people he claims to serve," the former governor stated.
Defense of Previous Security Record
The former governor emphasized that he has never been associated with violence or any acts that could undermine Kano's peace and stability. He pointed to his eight-year administration, which he said enjoyed an enviable period of peace and security that earned national commendation.
Ganduje accused the current administration of resorting to "political theatrics, baseless allegations, and media drama" instead of providing real security solutions to the people of Kano State.
The Kano State Government formally called for Ganduje's arrest and investigation following a State Executive Council meeting on November 28, 2025. Officials described his comments as "inciting, reckless, and capable of undermining ongoing security efforts," noting that suspected bandits launched another attack within 48 hours of his remarks.
However, Ganduje maintains that the government is merely weaponizing insecurity to persecute political opponents, insisting that true leadership should be demonstrated through purposeful action and responsibility rather than press conferences and frivolous statements.
