The Kano State Government has called for the arrest of former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje and Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, accusing them of making inciting statements and allegedly planning to form a 12,000-member religious police force known as Khairul Nas.
The allegation was made on Friday night by the state Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, after the State Executive Council meeting.
Waiya stated that both leaders made “reckless and inflammatory” comments suggesting that Kano was vulnerable to bandit attacks, and claimed they intended to recruit thousands into an unauthorized religious security outfit.
According to him, the comments threatened ongoing security efforts by both the state government and the Federal Government.
The commissioner added that within 48 hours of the controversial statements, suspected bandits invaded some border communities in the state—raising concerns that the remarks may have been intentional or connected to the attack.
Ganduje Responds: ‘Reckless and Baseless’
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Ganduje dismissed the call for his arrest as “reckless, baseless, and a reflection of the governor’s desperation.”
He accused Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of failing in his duties and using him as a scapegoat instead of addressing insecurity affecting communities like Bagwai, Shanono, and Tsanyawa.
Ganduje maintained that during his eight years as governor, Kano was secure, and said he had never been linked to violence.
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Barau Jibrin Also Denies Allegations
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, through a statement by his media aide Ismail Mudashir, also rejected the accusations.
He described the claims as fabricated and challenged the state government to produce evidence of any statement he made that could undermine security.
Barau accused the government of abandoning governance and resorting to political blackmail.
He highlighted his contributions to security—including providing vehicles, motorcycles, and support for police and DSS operations—urging the state government to focus on real issues instead of tarnishing his image.
Kano’s Political Tension Escalates
The exchange deepens existing tensions between the ruling state government and key opposition figures. While Kano insists Ganduje and Barau must be investigated, both leaders say the allegations are politically motivated and baseless.
