The Kano State Government has taken a decisive step by demanding the immediate investigation and arrest of former governor Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje over allegations of attempting to establish an illegal militia organization within the state.
Emergency Council Meeting Addresses Security Concerns
This dramatic development emerged during the 34th meeting of the State Executive Council (SEC) held at the Government House in Kano. The state government expressed serious concerns about comments made by the immediate-past governor regarding his intention to create a voluntary security outfit similar to the existing Hisbah structure.
State Commissioner for Information and Home Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, addressed journalists after the crucial SEC meeting, revealing that the council had thoroughly reviewed recent statements attributed to both Ganduje and Deputy Senate President Barau I. Jibrin.
Controversial Comments and Security Implications
The officials had allegedly claimed that Kano State remained vulnerable to bandit activities and subsequently proposed recruiting 12,000 youths into a religious police outfit to be named 'Khairul Nas'. This proposal came shortly after the Kano State Hisbah Board dismissed 12,000 personnel, with Ganduje unveiling plans to establish a Hisbah-like voluntary organization under the Ganduje Foundation.
Commissioner Waiya stated that the council considered these remarks as "inciting, reckless, and capable of undermining" both the state government's security efforts and President Bola Tinubu's administration. The timing of these statements raised particular alarm within the administration.
Suspicious Coincidence Raises Alarm
According to the commissioner's revelation, less than 48 hours after the controversial statements were made, suspected bandits infiltrated several border communities within Kano State. This development created suspicion among council members that the comments might have been premeditated rather than coincidental.
"Council reaffirmed its appreciation to the Federal Government and security agencies for their sustained support in securing the state and therefore called for the immediate investigation and arrest of the former Governor for attempting to create an illegal militia group," Waiya emphasized during the press briefing.
Government Calls for Restraint and Vigilance
The information commissioner urged all political leaders and public figures to exercise maximum restraint and avoid making pronouncements that could potentially heighten tension or incite civil unrest. He assured citizens of the government's unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.
This confrontation represents one of the most significant political clashes since the change of administration in Kano State, highlighting ongoing tensions between the current government and its predecessor over security management and political influence in the strategically important northern state.
