The Kano State government has strongly refuted claims by elder statesman Buba Galadima, who recently accused Governor Abba Yusuf of suppressing opposition voices in the state.
The administration described the statements as false, politically motivated, and deliberately designed to mislead the public.
In a briefing to journalists, the Commissioner for Information and Home Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, condemned the remarks, labeling them as “reckless, malicious, and contrived.”
According to Waiya, Galadima had alleged that Governor Yusuf, in collaboration with the Kano director of the Department of State Services (DSS), was intimidating political opponents to silence dissent.
“The Kano State government categorically rejects these political allegations,” Waiya said.
“At no point has the government directed any security agency to harass, intimidate, or target opposition voices.
“Such claims are false and misleading, meant to create political tension where none exists.”
The commissioner stressed that Governor Yusuf’s administration is committed to safeguarding fundamental human rights, including the freedom of expression guaranteed under the Nigerian Constitution.
He noted, however, that freedom of expression is not absolute and cannot extend to defamation, incitement, or the deliberate spread of false information capable of undermining public peace.
“No responsible government will allow social media or public platforms to be used as tools for tarnishing reputations or creating unnecessary tension,” Waiya added.
Linking the political allegations to recent events, the commissioner noted that similar claims surfaced shortly after Governor Yusuf’s defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He also highlighted Galadima’s removal as chairman of the Board of Kano State Polytechnic, explaining that the decision was administrative, based on performance and competence, and not politically motivated.
Waiya emphasized that security agencies, including the DSS, operate strictly within the law and adhere to their constitutional mandates.
Any action taken by these agencies is based on credible complaints and lawful procedures rather than political directives.
“It is important to understand that security institutions function independently of political interference and act only on verified matters,” he said.
The commissioner further assured that opposition figures operate freely across Kano State, enjoying full political rights, while the media continues to function without obstruction or censorship.
He warned that the deliberate dissemination of misinformation or politically motivated narratives could jeopardize public order and create unnecessary tension.
Highlighting the state government’s approach, Waiya said the administration maintains a policy of tolerance and dialogue, allowing all citizens to express their views peacefully.
“Our governance model is anchored in democratic principles, the rule of law, and peaceful coexistence. We encourage constructive criticism but reject malicious political allegations,” he stated.
The commissioner also drew attention to the role of social media in amplifying unverified claims.
He cautioned against the misuse of digital platforms for spreading political allegations, noting that such actions can escalate tensions and undermine public confidence in governance.
“Social media should be a tool for information, not misinformation,” he said.
Furthermore, Waiya called on all political actors and stakeholders in Kano State to prioritize dialogue, engagement, and lawful expression of dissent rather than resorting to baseless accusations.
He reiterated that the state government values political plurality and encourages a healthy democratic process, free from intimidation or harassment.
In conclusion, the Kano State government reaffirmed its commitment to upholding democratic norms and the constitutional rights of its citizens.
While opposition voices are free to operate, any attempt to spread political allegations without factual basis will be regarded as an effort to destabilize public order.
The administration under Governor Yusuf remains focused on promoting good governance, transparency, and peaceful coexistence across the state.
By clearly rejecting these political allegations, the government signaled its determination to maintain law and order while protecting the rights of all political actors and citizens.
Ireport247news
