Lukman Abdulmalik
A Kano-based socio-political group, One Kano Agenda, has accused the Federal Government of deliberately sabotaging Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day celebration in the state through what it described as politically motivated interference by the police.
At a press conference held at the Nigerian Union of Journalist Secretariat, Kano on Thursday, the group’s Director-General, Abass Abdullahi Yakasai, alleged that the last-minute withdrawal of the Kano State Police Command from the ceremonial parade was a calculated attempt to embarrass Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and dampen the spirits of citizens.
According to the group, the police pullout which reportedly came barely 30 minutes before the commencement of the parade was ordered from Abuja and not a mere administrative oversight.
“This action was designed not only to disrespect the office of the governor but, more importantly, to disappoint the millions of Kano citizens who had gathered to celebrate our nationhood,” Yakasai said.
One Kano Agenda claimed the incident was part of a broader pattern of political interference aimed at destabilizing Kano, citing previous controversies surrounding traditional institutions in the state.
“It warned that turning the police into a “political tool” posed a direct threat to peace and stability.
The group urged Kano youths not to allow themselves to be used in orchestrated rallies or propaganda campaigns in support of what it called “selfish politicians.”
It further demanded that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu heed Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s call to replace the Commissioner of Police in the state, describing it as a necessary step toward de-escalating political tension and restoring public confidence.
“The people of Kano are watching.
“Anyone found involved in these schemes of destabilization will be rejected and consigned to the political cemetery,” the statement warned.
The group, however, commended Governor Yusuf for ensuring that the independence celebration went ahead successfully despite the setback, describing his resilience as proof that “the spirit of the people of Kano cannot be easily broken.”
