Kano

By Uzair Adam

A Divisional Police Officer (DPO) Baba Ali and one other individual have lost their lives following a violent disturbance in Rano Local Government Area of Kano State.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the Kano State Police Command on Monday and signed by its spokesperson, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa.

According to the statement, the unrest began on the evening of Sunday, May 25, after a motorcycle mechanic, Abdullahi Musa, was arrested over allegations of reckless and dangerous riding.

He was suspected to be under the influence of substances and was detained at the Rano Police Division.

Police said the suspect later showed signs of weakness and was taken to the Rano General Hospital, where he died the following morning, May 26, while receiving treatment.In reaction to his death, the Command stated that a group of miscreants attacked the Rano Police Division, looting and setting parts of the building and two vehicles on fire.

Ten additional vehicles were also destroyed during the chaos.

Ali, who was critically injured in the attack, was rushed to Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital but died while receiving treatment.

Police confirmed the arrest of 27 suspects linked to the violence, adding that normalcy has been restored in the area.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Bakori, PhD, visited the scene and also paid a condolence visit to the Emir of Rano, His Highness, Ambassador Dr. Mohammed Isah Umar (Autan Bawo 19).

He ordered a thorough and transparent investigation to uncover the causes of the incident and ensure justice is done.

While condoling with the family of the late DPO, the Command urged residents to remain calm and not resort to self-help, assuring the public of its commitment to peace and order throughout the state.

By Uzair Adam Tension engulfed Rano Local Government Area of Kano State on Monday following the death of a young man, Abdullahi Musa, who reportedly died in police custody during interrogation.

It was gathered that Abdullahi was arrested on Sunday for an alleged traffic offence. His sudden death sparked outrage in the community, prompting a protest, mainly by youth.

What started as a peaceful demonstration soon turned violent when protesters stormed the Rano Divisional Police Headquarters and set it on fire.Amid the unrest, a police officer was reportedly injured after being attacked.

The officer, whose identity remains undisclosed, is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.

Eyewitnesses said the situation escalated when police allegedly opened fire to disperse the crowd, injuring two young men in the process.

“We were protesting peacefully and demanded answers about Abdullahi Musa. But things got out of hand when the police began shooting,” a resident said.

Kano State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, confirmed the incident and assured that a full investigation would be carried out.

“A thorough investigation will be conducted to uncover the truth, by the Grace of God,” he said.

By Maryam Ahmad

An Upper Shariah Court in Kano has sentenced one Shafiu Abubakar to death by hanging for setting fire to a mosque in Gadan village, Gezawa Local Government Area, leading to the death of several worshippers.

The tragic incident occurred earlier this year when Abubakar reportedly locked the mosque doors and poured petrol before setting the building ablaze during early morning prayers. The attack claimed the lives of multiple worshippers and left others with severe injuries.

Presiding over the case, the judge described Abubakar’s actions as deliberate and heinous, noting that the punishment was in line with Shariah provisions for such offences.

The sentencing has drawn mixed reactions. Some residents welcome the verdict as justice served, while others continue to mourn the devastating loss.

Authorities have urged communities to remain calm and uphold peace and coexistence.

By Anwar Usman

The Kano State Judicial Service Commission has taken disciplinary action against a court registrar and two other staff over misconduct.

This is contained in a statement issued by Mr Baba Jibo-Ibrahim, the spokesperson of the Kano State Judiciary.

He said the decision was among the resolutions reached at the JSC’s 82nd meeting on Wednesday.

He said the commission, under its mandate to ensure discipline and integrity, adopted the recommendations of the investigation panel established by the Judiciary Public Complaints Committee.

The commission resolved to apply a series of disciplinary measures and administrative decisions.

The statement in part reads “Court Registrar Salisu Sule was demoted by one grade level after the JPCC found overwhelming evidence of misconduct in four separate complaints bordering on insults, intimidation, and abuse of office.

“The two reinstated magistrates are Chief Magistrate Mustapha Sa’ad-Datti and Chief Magistrate Rabi Abdulkadir,” Baba jibo further stated that, investigation shows that Sule consistently used the name of the judiciary to harass and intimidate the public while discharging his duties.

“The JSC had issued a warning letter to him dated Dec.19, 2024, and has now resolved to impose this stiffer sanction, demoting him by one grade level with immediate effect,” he said.

The statement added that after careful review, the Commission resolved that Mustapha Sa’ad-Datti and Rabi Abdulkadir should resume sitting and continue with their judicial duties.

“They are, however, admonished to uphold the highest standards of integrity, diligence, and professionalism in the discharge of their judicial functions,” the statement said.

Jibo-Ibrahim said Ahmad Aliyu Danmaraya, a Principal Registrar attached to the High Court Headquarters in Kano, was directed to proceed on compulsory retirement with immediate effect for acts of gross misconduct.

“The JPCC found Danmaraya guilty of forging an affidavit, affixing the High Court stamp and seal, and inscribing a fake receipt number, knowing fully well that he is not a commissioner for oaths,” he said.

By Sani Surajo Abubakar

At the commencement of the 28th Kano State Executive Council on Monday 19th of May, 2025, held at Kwankwasiyya City, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf presided over the swearing-in of Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Ibrahim Umaru (rtd.) as the new commissioner of Internal Security and Special Services.

His nomination, screening and confirmation by the Kano State House of Assembly and subsequent swearing-in followed the resignation of the pioneer Commissioner of the Ministry some few weeks back.

The new commissioner was the immediate past Director-General of the Special Service Directorate, Kano Government House, responsible for coordinating the operations of security agencies and other engagements critical to safer living in the state.

Before his debut in the government business of Kano State, he was a retired Airforce Officer with vast experience in peacekeeping operations and national assignments both locally and internationally.

He is passionate and committed to youth empowerment and entrepreneurship skills development, with a firm belief that empowering youth will help improve the living standard of the state’s residents and boost rapid socioeconomic development and prosperity.

As a retired Air Vice Marshal, his new position as commissioner will bring a wealth of experience from his illustrious military career in curbing security challenges in the state.

 Indeed, his sojourn as Director-General of the Special Service Directorate and subsequently as commissioner underscores the state government’s commitment to harnessing expertise from various fields to drive progress.

The appointment of Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Ibrahim Umaru as Commissioner in Kano State Government has sparked widespread interest and debate. As a seasoned security expert, AVM Umaru’s induction into the state executive council is seen by many as a strategic move to leverage his expertise in bolstering security and development initiatives in the state.

Many observers view AVM Umaru’s appointment as fitting, given his background and the current security challenges facing Kano State. His experience in security matters is expected to significantly contribute to the state’s efforts in maintaining peace and stability.

The appointment seems to align perfectly with the needs of the state, making it a case of a “square peg in a square hole.”

With AVM Umaru on board, the Kano State Government will likely benefit from his strategic insight and operational expertise. His role could be pivotal in enhancing Security Measures.

He will also utilize his military background to strengthen security frameworks and responses, advise on policy matters, provide informed counsel on security and development policies, and Facilitate dialogue and cooperation between security agencies and local communities.

AVM Ibrahim Umaru’s appointment appears well-considered, aligning his skills with the state’s needs. As he takes on this new role, expectations are high for meaningful contributions to Kano State’s security and development landscape. Only time will tell how effectively he navigates the complexities of his new position, but the outlook seems promising.

Congratulations, AVM, and may your appointment yield positive results for our dear state, Kano.

Sani is the Deputy Director of Public Enlightenment at the Kano Government House.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Kano State Censorship Board has revoked the licenses of eight open theaters for repeatedly violating operational guidelines.

The Board’s Executive Secretary, Alh. Abba El-Mustapha, announced the decision after a management meeting, citing failure to comply with regulations.

The affected theaters include:

1. Hamdala Entertainment (Ungoggo)

2. Lady J. Entertainment (Sanya Olu)

3. Dan Hausa Entertainment (Sanya Olu)

4. Ni’ima Entertainment (Zungeru)

5. Ariya Entertainment (Abedi Sabon Gari)

6. Babbangida Entertainment (Balatus)

7. Harsashi Entertainment (Ebedi Sabon Gari)

8. Wazobiya Entertainment (Sanya Olu)

Abdullahi Sani Sulaiman, the Board’s Information Officer, stated that the action reaffirms the government’s commitment to enforcing entertainment laws.

The Board, mandated to regulate open theaters, has previously suspended defaulters to ensure industry compliance. Authorities warned that further violations would attract stricter penalties.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

An officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Abubakar Abdulkadir Mayos, has demonstrated integrity by returning a lost Basic Travelling Allowance (BTA) of $505 and 30 Saudi Riyals to an intending pilgrim in Yola.

The BTA, meant to cover personal expenses during Hajj, was traced to its owner, Maimuna Salihu, a pilgrim from Taraba State, with the help of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

The money was handed over to her at the Yola Pilgrims’ Camp, drawing praise from officials and fellow pilgrims.

In a related development, 411 pilgrims from Yobe State were airlifted to Saudi Arabia from the Muhammadu Buhari International Airport in Maiduguri.

The final batch of 73 pilgrims from Adamawa State was also flown out.

NAHCON Secretary, Dr. Mustapha Muhammad Ali, urged the pilgrims to uphold Nigeria’s image and abide by Saudi laws.

He also called for prayers for Nigeria’s peace and prosperity.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

In a touching act of compassion, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has adopted Hauwa Yusuf (popularly known as Ummi), a 31-year-old woman battling a rare and debilitating illness known as muscular dystrophy.

Ummi, a law graduate of Bayero University Kano (BUK), has been living with the incurable condition for 18 years. Despite her severe physical limitations and financial hardship, she defied the odds to complete her university education. Today, she can barely walk without support.

Social media personality and academic, Dr. Muhsin Ibrahim, who has followed Ummi’s story for two years, revealed that she had previously received some assistance from Air Peace CEO, Allen Onyema, who sponsored a short medical trip to India. However, her condition remained unmanaged until a turning point came on the night of May 18, 2025.

In a desperate bid for help, Ummi reached out to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf via text message. The Governor responded promptly and compassionately. According to Dr. Ibrahim, Governor Abba promised to take full responsibility for her well-being, saying he would do “everything a father would do for a daughter.”

In a symbolic gesture of solidarity, the Governor connected Ummi with his own daughter, also a law student, fostering a personal friendship to provide emotional support. Additionally, he directed that Ummi’s family be provided with adequate food supplies and pledged to make her upcoming Sallah celebration “memorable.”

In a further show of generosity, the Governor ordered that Amina, a lady who has spent years caring for Ummi, be placed on the Government House’s casual staff payroll with immediate effect.

The Governor’s actions have drawn widespread praise, with many Nigerians taking to social media to commend his empathy and swift intervention.

“May Allah make it easy for Ummi and reward Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf handsomely,” Dr. Ibrahim concluded in his heartfelt tribute.

By Uzair Adam

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has ordered the immediate suspension of Ibrahim Rabi’u, a Senior Special Reporter attached to the Ministry of Transportation, over what the government described as unguarded and inflammatory remarks.

The suspension followed a recent statement issued by Rabi’u, in which he allegedly spoke on the rumoured defection of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The statement, which surfaced on Saturday, was widely circulated and attributed to Kwankwaso — a claim both the former governor and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) have since disowned.

The Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim, announced the suspension on Saturday, stating that a query has also been issued to the aide.

In a statement signed by Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, spokesperson to Governor Yusuf, the government firmly distanced itself from the claim, noting that the controversial statement was made solely by Rabi’u and not on behalf of the state government.

The government reiterated that only the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Garba Waiya, is authorised to speak for the government, while the Director General, Media and Publicity, Sanusi Bature, speaks for the Governor.

“All political appointees are hereby cautioned against making unauthorised public statements, especially those outside their official jurisdiction,” the statement said.

It added that clearance must be obtained before issuing any comment on matters of public concern or politically sensitive issues.

By Uzair Adam

The Federal Government has kicked off a major healthcare initiative in Kano State, offering free emergency medical services to indigent patients—beginning with the accreditation of Dala Orthopaedic Hospital under the National Emergency Medical Service and Ambulance System (NEMSAS).

At the official unveiling on Friday, the hospital’s Chief Medical Director, Dr. Nurudeen Isa, described the move as a significant milestone in the administration’s health agenda.

He noted that the facility would now offer 48 hours of free emergency care to underprivileged patients brought in from any part of the state.

“Today marks a new chapter in emergency healthcare delivery—one where the poor no longer have to suffer or die in silence due to lack of funds,” Dr. Isa said.

Funded through the Federation Account, NEMSAS was established to ensure that Nigerians, particularly the most vulnerable, receive timely and life-saving emergency treatment.

The program targets cases such as road traffic accidents, obstetric complications, snake bites, gunshot wounds, and other urgent conditions.

Dr. Isa revealed that Dala Orthopaedic is the first accredited facility in Kano under this scheme, with more public and private hospitals expected to follow soon.

Representing the Federal Ministry of Health at the event, Dr. Emuren Doubra, Head of Operations at NEMSAS, said the initiative is sustained through a statutory allocation—5% of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund—as mandated by the National Health Act.

“Our goal is to eliminate financial barriers during emergencies. We’re partnering with both private and public hospitals to ensure that poor Nigerians aren’t left stranded when minutes matter most,” he said.

The program is part of the Renewed Hope Agenda for Health and falls under the broader National Health Sector Renewal and Investment Initiative, led by Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate.

To facilitate prompt response, the initiative includes a fleet of ambulances equipped with medical gear and staffed by professionals, working in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to transport emergency patients from any location in the state.

“These ambulances are mobile emergency units. They begin treatment at the scene and alert hospitals in advance so preparations can start immediately,” said Dr. Doubra.

One of the program’s early beneficiaries, Aliyu Andul, shared his story. After a severe accident, he was advised in hospitals across Enugu and Lagos to undergo leg amputation. But receiving care at Dala Hospital changed everything.

“I was told my leg should be amputated. But when I came here, I got better treatment. I am now recovering—you can see I am standing,” he said, expressing gratitude for the free treatment.

The initiative is expected to scale up across Kano State, setting a new standard for emergency healthcare delivery in Nigeria.