Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has been issued a stern warning by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to refrain from taking any actions that could spark violence or anarchy in the state ahead of the highly anticipated local government elections.
According to a statement released by Kano APC Chairman, Abdullahi Abbas, in Abuja, the governor’s recent comments at a rally have raised concerns about his intentions. At the rally, which took place at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Yusuf told a crowd of New Nigeria Peoples Party supporters that no one had the authority to stop the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission from conducting the local council poll scheduled for October 26.
The APC has expressed concerns that the governor’s remarks could be seen as a subtle attempt to encourage his supporters to disregard a court order. The Federal High Court in Kano, presided over by Justice Simon Amobeda, had earlier restrained the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission from holding the council poll, following the sacking of the chairman, secretary, and commissioners of the agency.
Abbas emphasized that the governor should respect the law and refrain from inciting people to take the law into their own hands. He stated, “The governor should simply respect the laws. As law-abiding citizens interested in the growth of our dear state of Kano, the governor should desist from any act that could throw the state into chaos. Inciting people to take the laws into their hands is not the hallmark of good leadership.”
Furthermore, Justice Amobeda also restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from issuing the voter register to KANSIEC and barred security agencies from participating in the proposed election.
The APC’s warning to Governor Yusuf is a clear indication of the escalating tensions in Kano State, where the local government elections are widely seen as a crucial test of the state’s democratic institutions. With the elections just around the corner, all eyes are on the governor and his administration to ensure that the polls are free, fair, and peaceful.
The APC’s call for restraint and adherence to the court’s directive is a welcome move, as it prioritizes the rule of law and the safety of Kano State’s citizens. As the state gears up for the elections, it is essential that all parties involved respect the democratic process and avoid actions that could undermine the integrity of the polls.
Ultimately, the outcome of the local government elections in Kano State will depend on the ability of the governor, the electoral commission, and other stakeholders to work together to ensure a free and fair process.