By Uzair Adam
The Kano State Government has expressed deep concern over the arrest and subsequent transfer of the former Chairman of the Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC), Muhuyi Magaji Rimin Gado, by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Kano State, Abdulkarim Kabiru Maude, on Friday.
According to the state government, Magaji was arrested around 5:30 p.m. on Thursday at his law office along Zaria Road in Kano by heavily armed police officers who allegedly did not present any warrant of arrest or court order.
He was first taken to the Police Headquarters at Bompai before being moved to Abuja later that evening.
The statement noted that the development raises serious constitutional and legal concerns, particularly in relation to Sections 35, 36, and 46 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantee personal liberty, fair hearing, and the right to seek enforcement of fundamental rights.
While acknowledging that the police have the authority to investigate and enforce the law, the Attorney General stressed that such powers must be exercised within the bounds of due process and respect for human dignity.
The government described the manner and timing of the arrest as worrisome, especially given the absence of any official notification to state authorities despite the sensitivity of the case.
It added that the operation appeared unnecessarily militarized, warning that the action could create tension, fear, and political misinterpretation within Kano State.
The government further alleged that some political actors outside the state might be attempting to exploit federal institutions in ways capable of destabilizing Kano and undermining the current environment of peace and good governance.
According to additional findings by the state government, Magaji’s arrest is believed to be connected to several ongoing investigations and prosecutions involving politically exposed persons in Kano.
The statement warned that the move could be aimed at obstructing or compromising these sensitive cases.
The government also described as alarming the alleged deployment of more than 40 armed police officers for the arrest despite a subsisting High Court order restraining security agencies from harassing or arresting Magaji.
It said the development raises concerns about abuse of power and misplaced security priorities at a time when the state and nation face significant security challenges.
The Kano State Government reaffirmed that the state remains peaceful and governed by the rule of law, stressing that any action capable of provoking public disorder or politicizing law enforcement must be firmly resisted.
It urged the police to publicly explain the legal basis for Magaji’s arrest and transfer to Abuja, while calling for full adherence to constitutional provisions and human rights standards.
The government reiterated its commitment to cooperating with all lawful security agencies but warned that it would take every constitutional step necessary to protect the rights of its citizens and safeguard public peace.
Residents were urged to remain calm and law-abiding as the situation continues to unfold.