Kano Govt Faults Galadima On Allegations Against Gov. Yusuf

The Kano State government on Friday faulted comments by elder statesman, Buba Galadima, accusing Governor Abba Yusuf of suppressing opposition voices, describing the claims as false and politically motivated.

The commissioner for information and home affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, while briefing newsmen in Kano late Friday said the allegations made in a recent interview were “reckless, malicious and contrived.”

Galadima had reportedly alleged that the governor and the Kano director of the Department of State Services were intimidating dissenting voices in the state.

But the government denied the claims, insisting that it had never directed security agencies to harass or intimidate political opponents.

“The Kano State government categorically rejects the insinuation that it has ever directed security agencies to harass or intimidate political opponents or dissenting voices. Such claims are not only false but deliberately misleading,” he said.

Waiya said the administration of Governor Yusuf remained committed to the protection of fundamental rights, including freedom of expression as guaranteed by the Constitution.

He noted that freedom of expression did not extend to defamation, incitement or the spread of falsehood capable of threatening public peace.

“No responsible government will fold its arms while individuals weaponise social media and public platforms to tarnish reputations and incite unnecessary tension,” he added.

The commissioner linked the allegations to recent political developments, noting that similar claims emerged after Yusuf’s defection to the All Progressives Congress.

He also referenced Galadima’s removal as chairman of the Board of Kano State Polytechnic, saying the decision was taken on administrative grounds relating to performance and competence.

According to him, security agencies, including the DSS, operate within the ambit of the law and their constitutional mandates, stressing that any action taken by them is based on credible complaints and lawful procedures, not political directives.

Waiya maintained that opposition figures operate freely in the state and that the media continues to function without hindrance.

He warned against the deliberate spread of misinformation capable of undermining public order, reaffirming the government’s commitment to democratic principles, the rule of law and peaceful coexistence in Kano State.