In a scathing critique, 2023 PDP Presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has condemned the inflammatory remarks issued by the Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Felix Morka, directed at Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the last general election. Abubakar described these remarks as a disturbing emblem of the current administration’s unsettling strategy in addressing opposition figures. “This threat against Obi, coupled with the prolonged detention of Mahdi Shehu, a prominent voice of dissent, signals a worrisome shift towards an authoritarian governance model, where the rights of opposition voices are being suffocated,” Abubakar stated.

Abubakar expressed alarm over the choice of words used by the APC’s spokesperson, particularly the ominous suggestion that Obi has “crossed the line.” He noted, “Such language, rooted in hostility, has no place in a free society where civil discourse and engagement should reign supreme. A true democracy thrives on the healthy exchange of ideas, where the criticisms and contributions of opposition leaders, like Peter Obi, are seen as vital for the betterment of governance and the promotion of public accountability.”

Highlighting the duty of a democratic government to listen to its critics, Abubakar emphasized, “It is not merely the right, but the solemn duty of a democratic government to listen attentively to the voices of its critics, to engage in meaningful dialogue, and to allow space for the articulation of alternative viewpoints. Instead, we are faced with a chilling threat that suggests Obi must ‘be ready for whatever comes his way.’ What, exactly, does Mr. Morka imply by this? It is imperative that the ruling party provides clarity on this disturbing insinuation.”

Abubakar also criticized the crude and disparaging manner in which the APC spokesperson framed Peter Obi’s calls for constructive engagement, likening them to a lawless Wild West scenario. “Such reckless and derogatory expressions cannot be tolerated, and it is incumbent upon the APC to issue a formal apology to Obi and the Nigerian people for such disgraceful language,” he asserted.

Addressing the case of Mallam Shehu, who remains in detention without any clear explanation, Abubakar added, “The case of Mallam Shehu, languishing in detention without any clear explanation for his continued imprisonment, adds to the growing concern about the erosion of freedoms in Nigeria. If there is anyone who has truly ‘crossed the line,’ it is the Tinubu administration, whose continuous vilification of opposition figures as mere irritants to be crushed is a dangerous precedent.”

Abubakar called for immediate intervention from all men and women of goodwill, urging the Tinubu government to recalibrate its approach to dealing with dissent and opposition. “The time has come to put an end to this stifling of voices that are crucial to the health of any functioning democracy,” he concluded.

An Assistant Commissioner of Police in Kano, ACP Daniel Amah, has converted to Islam.

In a post on his verified Facebook page, popular broadcast journalist in Kano, Nasiru Salisu Zango, made the announcement.

Nasiru Zango, who made the post in Hausa, said our trusted friend ACP Daniel Amah has accepted Islam.

Nasiru Zango describes ACP Daniel Amah as a kind person. Every detainee will understand that during his days as DPO in Bompai, he used to provide mattresses for detainees and even built a mosque in the division.

Comrade Isyaku Abubakar Balan, a Senior Legislative Aide to the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, has asserted that Senator Barau’s achievements in human development and community projects in Kabo Local Government and Kano North surpass those of former Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso during his time in the Senate.

Speaking to journalists in Kano, Balan highlighted Senator Barau’s numerous contributions, describing them as unprecedented.

“Barau has done so much for Kabo and Kano North that no sensible person can oppose him and support Kwankwaso.”

He emphasized that Senator Barau’s efforts in creating job opportunities are unprecedented, citing an instance where the senator facilitated jobs for 12 individuals in a single day, a feat he claims remains unmatched by Kwankwaso.

The legislative aide also praised Barau’s instrumental role in bringing the Federal Polytechnic to Kabo, which is now on course to be upgraded to a university.

He contrasted this with what he described as Kwankwaso’s lack of significant contributions to educational infrastructure in the area.

In terms of security, Balan noted that Senator Barau has made significant strides, including establishing a Police Service unit in his senatorial zone and providing vehicles and motorcycles for security personnel.

“These initiatives have directly enhanced community safety, while Kwankwaso has not done anything in the security sector.”

According to Balan Senator Barau’s developmental initiatives extend beyond security and education, with his efforts in ICT infrastructure, housing projects, and empowerment programs earning him widespread praise from residents.

The statement reflects the deep political rivalry between supporters of Barau and Kwankwaso, further intensifying debates over leadership and development in Kano State.