The Kano State Government has levelled an accusation against Justice Benson Anya, a judge on the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal in the state, alleging that he disrespected the late Mallam Aminu Kano. The government claims that Justice Anya’s remarks against the “anti-red cap” were directed at the late statesman, as the red cap was closely associated with him.
The tribunal recently nullified the election of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) administration led by Governor Abba Yusuf. The NNPP is supported by Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, whose followers, known as the Kwankwasiya, prominently wear red caps.
The Kano State Commissioner for Information, Baba Halilu Dantiye, expressed his displeasure with Justice Anya’s comments. Dantiye stated, “The judge’s remarks were a direct affront to the people of Kano. Justice Anya’s comments insulted the personality of late Mallam Aminu Kano, as we are his direct disciples, and the red cap is our collective symbol.”
Moreover, Dantiye emphasized that Justice Anya’s disrespectful remarks did not align with the reputation of the Nigerian judiciary, known for harboring individuals with proven integrity and exemplary quality of life.
Dantiye added, “You cannot come to Kano and disrespect the symbol of the Father of Democracy, Mallam Aminu Kano, which is the red cap, and expect to go unpunished. We are taking up this matter with the National Judicial Council (NJC), as the NNPP leadership in Kano has clearly stated.”
Regarding the tribunal’s verdict, Dantiye expressed confidence that it would not withstand the test of time. He considered it a temporary setback that the government would overcome.
Furthermore, the commissioner stated that the state government remains undeterred by the tribunal’s judgment and continues to focus on executing its various projects. Notable among these projects is the marriage program for over 1000 widows.
