The Kano State Peace Advocates (KASPA) have dismissed allegations of escalating repression in Kano State, insisting that civil liberties remain protected under the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
In a statement issued on Thursday, signed by its Director of Publicity, Comrade Adam Auwal, the group clarified concerns arising from recent public commentary about the state of freedom of expression in Kano.
KASPA emphasized that civil liberties, as enshrined in Chapter IV (Sections 33–46) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), guarantee fundamental freedoms including the right to life, dignity, personal liberty, fair hearing, freedom of thought and religion, freedom of expression and the press, freedom of assembly and association, freedom of movement, and freedom from discrimination.
According to the statement, these rights protect citizens from unlawful arrest or oppression and ensure equality before the law, forming the foundation of Nigeria’s democracy.
The statement reaffirmed that Governor Yusuf is “a committed democrat” who believes in and upholds constitutional rights, particularly freedom of expression.
It also noted that since assuming office, the governor has encouraged constructive criticism, maintained open communication channels with citizens, and refrained from enacting policies aimed at suppressing lawful speech or peaceful civic engagement.
KASPA, however, drew a distinction between the political leadership of the state and the operational mandates of security agencies such as the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force.
It explained that these agencies operate under established legal frameworks that empower them to act independently in matters relating to public safety and security.
The group stated that where security agencies determine that certain actions or statements may constitute incitement, threats to public order, cyber-related offenses, or other legal violations, they are authorized to act in accordance with due process without requiring the directive or prior approval of the governor.
“In a democratic system, security institutions are empowered to enforce the law without political interference,” the statement said, adding that such separation is necessary to preserve institutional integrity and uphold the rule of law.
KASPA cautioned against attributing enforcement actions taken by security agencies to the governor without verified evidence, warning that framing lawful security interventions as executive repression could misrepresent the facts.
The group reiterated that freedom of speech remains protected in Kano State but noted that abuse of such freedoms, particularly where it threatens public peace or violates existing laws, may lawfully attract investigation or prosecution.
It further maintained that security agencies are accountable to their respective oversight mechanisms under the Constitution and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to democratic principles, peaceful coexistence, and responsible civic participation.
The statement concluded by urging stakeholders to promote informed discourse, respect for the rule of law, and continued engagement through peaceful and lawful means.
