Unraveling the power of PR in the conflict between Sheikh Daurawa and governor Abba Kabir
By Auwal Sani
In the heart of Kano State, recently, conflict ensued between the state’s religious police popularly known Hisbah [Command], Kano State government and the controversial TikToker, Murja Kunya. This conflict has not only sparked public debate but also highlighted the critical role of effective public relations (PR) in governance.
It all began with Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf’s critique of Hisbah’s modus operandi, particularly in response to perceived deviations from the established laws. The governor’s remarks triggered a flurry of reactions, especially online, culminating into the unexpected resignation of Hisbah’s Director-General, Sheikh Aminu Ibrahim Daurawa. This abrupt departure further fueled tensions and political discord within the state.
However, amidst the turmoil, the saga took an intriguing turn with the involvement of Murja kunya, an ardent supporter of the Governor and his party (NNPP). Murja’s arrest by Hisbah and her miraculous release from prison without proper legal procedure raised eyebrows from various quarters, prompting questions about influence and justice.
Central to this unfolding drama is the apparent lack of effective PR strategies employed by both the government and Hisbah. A failure to conduct thorough situational analyses, engaging stakeholders, and maintaining open communication channels exacerbated the crisis, leading to a breakdown in trust between the authorities and the public.
Governor Yusuf’s comments, though well-intentioned, underscored the importance of a robust PR team to navigate sensitive issues and convey messages effectively. Collaborating with Hisbah’s leadership could have fostered dialogue and addressed concerns constructively, preventing further escalation of the situation.
Furthermore, the need for a crisis communication response team within the government and Hisbah is imperative. Timely and convincing damage control measures are essential to clarify intentions and restore public confidence in governance institutions.
Equally crucial is, the proactive engagement of relevant stakeholders by Hisbah before undertaking operations. Consultations with religious, governmental, and civil society leaders, among others, would ensure a comprehensive approach to addressing societal issues while mitigating potential conflicts.
Moreover, adequate training of Hisbah members on legal frameworks and rules of engagement are essential in preventing human rights violations and ensure professionalism in their duties. Additionally, investing in PR expertise within Hisbah’s communication department is essential to bridge the gap between the organization and the general public.
In hindsight, the confrontational response of Hisbah’s former Director-General to the governor’s criticisms highlights the need for professionalism and diplomacy in addressing internal challenges. Written correspondence or a formal meeting could have provided a more constructive platform for dialogue and resolution.
As the saga begins to fade, however, it serves as a stark reminder of the intrinsic link between effective public relations, transparent governance, and social harmony because, only through proactive engagement, strategic communication, and a commitment to openness can institutions like Hisbah navigate the complexities of contemporary society while upholding their mandates with integrity and accountability.
Auwal Sani writes from Kano State and can be reached via auwalsani986@gmail.com