Kano Commissioner Resigns Over Drug Suspect’s Bail Controversy

Kano State Commissioner for Transportation, Ibrahim Ali Namadi has resigned his appointment following controversy surrounding his involvement in securing the bail of a suspected drug baron, Sulaiman Aminu Danwawu.

Namadi’s resignation comes just hours after Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf received the findings of an investigative committee set up to probe the matter.

In a statement released by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the embattled commissioner described his decision as being in the overriding public interest, citing the sensitive nature of the issue and the need to preserve public trust.

“As a member of an administration that has consistently championed the fight against the sales and consumption of illicit drugs, it behoves me to take this step—painful as it may be,” Namadi said. “While I maintain my innocence, I cannot ignore the weight of public perception.”

The governor accepted the resignation and praised Namadi’s service, while reiterating his government’s zero-tolerance policy toward drug-related crimes.

He also reminded political appointees to act with caution and seek clearance before engaging in sensitive public matters.

Meanwhile, Namadi has been cleared of any financial or material wrongdoing by an investigative committee set up to probe his role in the controversial bail.

The committee’s report, submitted to Governor Yusuf on Tuesday confirmed that the Commissioner voluntarily submitted an application to act as surety for the defendant and deposed to an affidavit of means, as required by the court.

The report also noted that Namadi qualified to stand as surety in his capacity as a serving Commissioner.

However, the committee faulted him for lack of due diligence, stating that he failed to fully consider the sensitivity of standing bail for a defendant facing narcotics-related charges.

It further noted that the Commissioner was aware of the nature of the case and the state government’s firm stance against drug trafficking and abuse, particularly among youths.

However, the panel found no evidence of a prior relationship between the Commissioner and the suspect, and ruled out any financial or material inducement.

It dismissed the claims that Namadi deposited ₦5 million as part of the bail process as unfounded.