Kano State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Abbas, has tendered an apology to residents of Fagge community after his comments sparked outrage and prompted a direct criminal complaint before a Magistrate Court in Kano.
In a voice note shared on Facebook by the community’s lawyer, Barrister Abba Hikima Fagge, Abbas said his remarks were misunderstood.
“With all the religious scholars, political teachers, trusted associates, and friends I have in Fagge LGA, I have no reason whatsoever to insult the people of Fagge,” he said, adding that he was seeking the forgiveness of the community.
LEADERSHIP reports the apology comes as ten prominent residents of Fagge filed an ex parte motion before the Magistrate Court, accusing the APC chairman of making inciting and defamatory statements against the area.
The complainants—led by Dr. Nuruddeen Abubakar, Sheikh Abubakar Ya’u, Alhaji Sani Salisu, Alhaji Mustapha Rabiu, Sheikh Auwal Isa, Ubaidullahi Ibrahim, Malam Auwal Sabiu, Nafiu Shu’aibu Hikima, Malama Aisha Ibrahim, and Malam Ali Muhammad—filed the suit “for themselves and on behalf of other peace-loving members of the Fagge community.”
In the motion, brought under Sections 107 and 126(a) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law 2019, the complainants asked the court to issue a warrant directing the Kano State Commissioner of Police to arrest and investigate Abbas.
The offences listed include intentional insult, exciting hatred between classes, defamation, inciting disturbance, and offences against public peace, contrary to various sections of the Penal Code of Kano State.
Alternatively, the complainants asked the court to issue a criminal summons compelling Abbas to appear in person to answer the allegations.
The motion, dated November 10, 2025, was filed by a team of lawyers including A.A. Hikima, H.S. Bello, E.O. Ekaun, Ridwan Yunusa, Z.A. Sabuwa, Aliyu Kabiru, Suleiman Naima, Khadija Abba, and N.A. Abdulmumeen.
Abbas was said to have been recorded during a political gathering making comments linking “any worthless person” to Fagge, followed by additional remarks considered provocative and suggestive of placing himself above the law.
While the APC chairman insists that his words were taken out of context, the Fagge community maintained that the statements were derogatory and capable of inciting division.
The court is expected to rule on the prayers in the coming days.
