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Friday Sermon] IPOB Killings: An Invitation To Another Civil War In Nigeria!

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4 years ago

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IPOB militants

 

By Imam Murtadha Gusau

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all creation. May the salutations of Allah, His peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet, his family, his companions and his true and sincere followers until the Last Day – then to proceed:

Dear brothers and sisters! The terrorist group and Members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, on Sunday mercilessly killed 12 people from the Northern Nigeria, including a pregnant woman, her four children and eight others at Isulo, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The slain woman was identified as Harirah Jibril, 32, while the four children were identified as Fatimah, 9; Khadijah, 7; Azizah, 5 and; Zaitunah, 2.

The terrorists waylaid them on their way back home after a visit to Orumba North. The slain woman was a native of Adamawa State.

And as I’m talking to you now all Hausa people from the North have completely deserted Ihiala, following heightened attacks on non-natives in the area.

The unprovoked evictions, attacks, killings, destructions of properties and other forms of violations against northerners in various parts of the South East had resulted from the hate campaigns and propaganda being conducted by regional and ethnic agitators.

These killings followed other coordinated attacks on northern traders and haulage trucks, killing some people and destroying millions worth of properties including the truck.

Nigerian Army Foils Attack On Imo Police Command,Eliminates IPOB Commander 

We strongly condemn these killings. It is brutish, horrendous and barbaric. No family deserves to be wiped out in this manner.

And we call on the security agencies to smoke out the killers and bring them to justice. At the same time, we ask all men of conscience to speak up and condemn this barbaric killing.

For peace to reign and to avoid reprisal killings in other side of the country our people must have the liberty to exercising their freedom of movement in Southeastern part of the country, we’re law abiding citizens, we, therefore, warn that these killings should stop forthwith, as the blood of our people can’t be used as a sacrifice to keep Nigeria as one.

Once again, we wish to call on security agencies to intensify efforts in ensuring the lawless elements behind the killings are brought to book to serve as a deterrent to others.

We also appeal to our people in the North not to retaliate. Because vengeance will only ignite a cycle of violence. Nigeria needs peace at this crucial time. Therefore, nobody should embark on reprisal killing please. It will only compound the problem.

Respected brothers and sisters! One of the distinctive characteristics of the times we live in is the overwhelming presence of bloodshed, crisis and violence in our societies. Whether it is an IPOB attacks and killings to our people in Dei-Dei Abuja and southeast, or a tribal and religious attacks, or a kidnappings where innocent people are held at ransom to achieve political ends, we live in an age, where the manipulation and loss of innocent lives has become commonplace.

Such is the all-pervasive nature of indiscriminate violence, that terrorism is considered as one of the prime threats to peace and security in our societies.

The word terrorism came into wide usage only a few decades ago. But one of the unfortunate results of this new terminology is that it limits the definition of terrorism to that perpetrated by small groups or individuals. Terrorism, in fact, spans the entire world, and manifests itself in various forms. Its perpetrators do not fit any stereotype. Those who hold human lives cheap, and have the power to expend human lives, appear at different levels in our societies. The frustrated employee who kills his colleagues in cold-blood or the oppressed citizen of an occupied land who vents his anger by blowing up a school bus are terrorists who provoke our anger and revulsion. Ironically however, the politician who uses age-old ethnic animosities between peoples to consolidate his position, the head of state who orders “carpet bombing” of entire cities, the exalted councils that choke millions of civilians to death by wielding the insidious weapon of sanctions, the terrorist group like IPOB, who are killing the northerners living in their areas, are rarely punished for their crimes against humanity.

It is this narrow definition of terrorism that implicates only individuals and groups, that has caused Muslims to be associated with acts of destruction and terror, and as a result, to become victims of hate violence and terror themselves. Sometimes the religion of Islam is held responsible for the acts of a handful of Muslims, and often for the acts of non-Muslims!

Could it be possible that Islam, whose light ended the Dark Ages in Europe, now propound the advent of an age of terror? Could a faith that has over 2 billion followers the world over, and over 10 million in America, actually advocate the killing and maiming of innocent people? Could Islam, whose name itself stands for “peace” and “submission to Allah Almighty”, encourage its adherents to work for death and destruction?

For too long, have we relied on popular images in the media and in Hollywood films, for answers to these pertinent questions. It is now time to look at the sources of Islam, and its history to determine whether Islam does indeed advocate violence. The Glorious Qur’an says:

“…take not life, which Allah hath made sacred, except by way of justice and law: thus do He command you, that you may learn wisdom.” [Qur’an, 6:151]

Islam considers all life forms as sacred. However, the sanctity of human life is accorded a special place. The first and the foremost basic right of a human being is the right to live. The Glorious Qur’an says:

Far from being a militant dogma, Islam is a way of life that transcends race and ethnicity. The Glorious Qur’an repeatedly reminds us of our common origin:

“O mankind! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know each other (not that you may despise (each other). Verily the most honoured of you in the sight of Allah is (he who is) the most righteous of you. And Allah has full knowledge and is well acquainted (with all things).” [Qur’an, 49:13]

Thus, it is the universality of its teachings that makes Islam the fastest growing religion in the world. In a world full of conflicts and deep schisms between human beings, a world that is threatened with terrorism, perpetrated by individuals and states, Islam is a beacon of light that offers hope for the future.

Fellow Nigerians! If you can remember, the same thing taking place today of hate campaigns, maltreatment, attacking and killing the northerners by Igbo people was what ignited the 1966 Nigerian civil war.

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In August 1965 five Igbo Majors were beginning to plot a coup against incumbent Prime Minister Abubakar Tafawa Balewa. The coup was planned because the Majors as reported, were dissatisfied with the governments actions and that most Nigerian politicians were of Hausa or Fulani descent. In a memoir written by coup plotter Adewale Ademoyega he wrote:

“Our enemies are the political profiteers, the swindlers, the men in high and low places, that seek bribes and demand 10%; those that seek to keep the country divided permanently so that they can remain in office as ministers or VIPs.”

The coup plotters had five goals to achieve, to Strike simultaneously in regional capitals, arrest leading politicians-kill any who resist, avoid reprisals-kill all senior army officers, prevent troop movement-block Niger and Benue, and form a new Government. They planned to strike right before the Commonwealth Conference so that Tafawa Balewa would be distracted from any suspicious army movements.

In the weeks leading up to the coup Major Kaduna Nzeogwu carried out reconnaissance on Ahmadu Bello’s house in Kaduna. Nzeogwu often took his men on a night-time training exercise known as “Exercise Damisa” which was in actuality a practice run for a military coup. The commander of the 2nd Brigade, Brigadier Samuel Ademulegun, became irritated with the night-time exercises and reprimanded Nzeogwu in a telephone call to keep exercises a safe distance from Ahmadu Bello’s house. Although Ademulegun complained about the commotion he had no idea of the exercise’s true purpose. Nzeogwu’s control over his troops was so little that he had to conscript young soldiers from the Nigerian Military Training College at Kaduna. In the early hours on January 15, 1966 Nzeogwu decided to turn “Exercise Damisa” into a full blown military coup. Nzeogwu led his men to a bush adjacent to the house gates and informed them of their real mission. Nzeogwu and his men blew open the house gates and conducted a search of the residence, hunting for Ahmadu Bello Sardauna. After losing his temper at his initial failure to locate him, Nzeogwu found him with his wives. Ahmadu Bello was shot along with one of his wives who tried to shield him with her body. Also Ahmadu Bello’s faithful bodyguard came to defend him with a bow and arrows but was also shot.

So we have to be very very careful in order to avoid another civil war in Nigeria. Because if the killing of northerners in southeastern Nigeria continue, I’m assuring you that anything can happen…

All praises and thanks are due to Allah alone, Lord of the worlds. May the peace, blessings and salutations of Allah be upon our noble Messenger, Muhammad, and upon his family, his Companions and his true and sincere followers.

Murtadha Muhammad Gusau is the Chief Imam of Nagazi-Uvete Jumu’ah and the late Alhaji Abdur-Rahman Okene’s Mosques, Okene, Kogi State, Nigeria. He can be reached via: gusauimam@gmail.com or +2348038289761.

This Jumu’ah Khutbah (Friday sermon) was prepared for delivery today, Friday, Shawwal 26, 1443 AH (May 27, 2022).

 

“…if any one slew a person – unless it be for murder or for spreading mischief in the land – it would be as if he slew the whole people: and if any one saved a life, it would be as if he saved the life of the whole people.” [Qur’an, 5:32]

Such is the value of a single human life, that the Qur’an equates the taking of even one human life unjustly, with killing of all humanity. Thus, the Qur’an prohibits homicide in clear terms. The taking of a criminal’s life by the state in order to administer justice is required to uphold the rule of law, and the peace and security of the society. Only a proper and competent court can decide whether an individual has forfeited his right to life by disregarding the right to life and peace of other human beings.

Even in a state of war, Islam enjoins that one deals with the enemy nobly on the battlefield. Islam has drawn a clear line of distinction between the combatants and the non-combatants of the enemy country. As far as the non-combatant population is concerned such as women, children, the old and the infirm, etc., the instructions of the Prophet are as follows:

“Do not kill any old person, any child or any woman.” [Abu Dawud]

“Do not kill the monks in monasteries” or “Do not kill the people who are sitting in places of worship.” [Musnad of Imam Ahmad]

During a war, the Prophet (Peace be upon him) saw the corpse of a woman lying on the ground and observed:

“She was not fighting. How then she came to be killed?”

Thus non-combatants are guaranteed security of life even if their state is at war with an Islamic state.

While Islam in general is misunderstood in the western world, perhaps no other Islamic term evokes such strong reactions as the word ‘jihad.’ The term ‘jihad’ has been much abused, to conjure up bizarre images of violent Muslims, forcing people to submit at the point of the sword. This myth was perpetuated throughout the centuries of mistrust during and after the Crusades. Unfortunately, it survives to this day.

The word Jihad comes from the root word jahada, which means to struggle. So jihad is literally an act of struggling. The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said that the greatest jihad is to struggle with the insidious suggestions of one’s own soul. Thus jihad primarily refers to the inner struggle of being a person of virtue and submission to Allah in all aspects of life.

Secondarily, jihad refers to struggle against injustice. Islam, like many other religions, allows for armed self-defense, or retribution against tyranny, exploitation, and oppression. The Glorious Qur’an says:

“And why should you not fight in the cause of Allah and of those who, being weak, are ill-treated (and oppressed)? – Men, women, and children, whose cry is: “Our Lord! Rescue us from this town, whose people are oppressors; and raise for us from you one who will protect; and raise for us from you one who will help!” [Qur’an, 4:75]

Thus Islam enjoins upon its believers to strive utmost, in purifying themselves, as well as in establishing peace and justice in the society. A Muslim can never be at rest when he sees injustice and oppression around him. As Martin Luther King Jr. said:

“We will have to repent in this generation not merely for the hateful words and actions of the bad people but for the appalling silence of the good people.”

Islam enjoins upon all Muslims to work actively to maintain the balance in which Allah created everything. However, regardless of how legitimate the cause may be, the Glorious Qur’an never condones the killing of innocent people. Terrorising the civilian population can never be termed as jihad and can never be reconciled with the teachings of Islam.

Even Western scholars have repudiated the myth of Muslims coercing others to convert. The great historian De Lacy O’Leary wrote:

“History makes it clear, however, that the legend of fanatical Muslims, sweeping through the world and forcing Islam at the point of sword upon conquered races is one of the most fantastically absurd myths that historians have ever repeated.” [Islam at Crossroads, London, 1923 page 8]

Muslims ruled Spain for roughly 800 years. During this time, and up until they were finally forced out, the non-Muslims there were alive and flourishing. Additionally, Christian and Jewish minorities have survived in the Muslim lands of the Middle East for centuries. Countries such as Egypt, Morocco, Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan all have significant Christian and/or Jewish populations.

This is not surprising to a Muslim, for his faith prohibits him from forcing others to see his point of view. The Glorious Qur’an says:

“Let there be no compulsion in religion: Truth stands out clear from Error: whoever rejects evil and believes in Allah has grasped the most trustworthy hand-hold, that never breaks. And Allah hear and know all things.” [Qur’an, 2:256]

 

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Opinion

From Desks to Degrees: How Governor Yusuf Is Bankrolling A Generation’s Future

Published

3 days ago

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September 12, 2026

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By Abba Anwar

Who really wants to know who is His Excellency Engineer Abba Kabir Yusuf, Executive Governor of Kano State, in the education sector? Read through the following few paragraphs.

In 2024, education got 29.95% of Kano’s ₦437 billion budget. In 2025, it rose to ₦280.6 billion, 31% of the budget. A provision exceeding the globally suggested percentage for education. Meaning above UNESCO’s 26% recommendation. For 2026, Governor Yusuf presented a ₦1.368 trillion budget to the State Assembly, with ₦405.3 billion earmarked for education, which is 30% of the total.

That allocation earned His Excellency, by extension the state, an “Award of Excellence” at the Nigeria Governors’ Forum Education Summit and was hailed as a new National Benchmark. Kano sets pace for national development in one of the most important sectors of human endeavor.

“These allocations demonstrate our unwavering determination to invest heavily in human capital development,” Governor Yusuf said while presenting the 2026 budget. This clearly demonstrates his uninterrupted commitment and political will to change the direction of our education system from good to best.

With 68% of the 2026 budget going to capital projects, the message is clear: build systems, not just pay salaries. Which unarguably maintains his human-face policies since his assumption as an elected governor in 2023. Same zeal, same approach and same endurance keeps the wheel moving at high speed.

Another success narration is when the Governor assigned the Education Ministry to another committed gentleman of great substance and value, in the person of Dr Ali Haruna Makoda. Who, when the then Commissioner for Higher Education resigned, the Governor collapsed the Higher Education Ministry with the main Ministry of Education and directed Dr Makoda to handle them both. An executive recommendation from an Executive personality.

Another perspective to it, keeps manifesting for all to know how engaging is the people’s Governor. It is one’s clarity in observation that lights the road for healthier development. From the Minbars (pulpit) of Kano’s historic mosques to the timelines of Facebook, X and WhatsApp, one message is uniting all the 44 Local Government Areas, invest in the child. And extends same treatment to other aspect of the sector.

In just under three years, Governor Yusuf has turned that message into policy, budgets, and bricks. By declaring a “State of Emergency” on education and committing an unprecedented 30% of state resources to the sector, Kano is not just spending more. It is redefining what government can deliver to ordinary families. This means the direction of the ship is straight, the captain navigating all on board is visionary and the system is not collapsing but strengthening.

The result of Kano’s commitment is what led education experts to coin the development as “The Kano Model” which is bold, people-first experiment in how a sub-national government can interrogate out-of-school rates, teacher shortages, and poor learning outcomes all at once.

You may not appreciate Kano’s Model in the most appropriate way until and unless you view other states across the country. I searched two states from each of the six geo-political zones, compared them with Kano, I then arrived at what excellence means, what commitment entails and what Kano Governor symbolizes. An embodiment of good work and commitment.

Let me begin with the North West zone. Kano state had no available data for 2023. While in 2024, when the current administration started the year from the beginning, the percentage allocated to education was 29.95%. In 2025 education got 31%, meaning ₦280.6bn. And in 2026 the percentage is 30%, meaning ₦405.3bn. While Jigawa state had no available data in 2023-2025. But in 2026 the percentage is 26%, meaning ₦234.48bn of ₦901.84bn.

Under North East we are looking at Bauchi and Gombe states. For Bauchi in 2023 there was no available data. With the total budget ₦202.64bn, still allocation for education was not available. In 2024 the percentage for education was 16.1% meaning the sum of ₦48bn was allocated to the sector of the total budget of ₦300.2bn. In 2025 the allocation for education was 13%. And in 2026 it was 15%.
While in Gombe there was no available data for 2023-2025. But in 2026 they allocated 8.01%.

North Central we have Benue and Nassarawa states. Benue in 2023-2024 it lacked available data on the education allocation for the two fiscal years. But in 2025 the percentage is 14.1% and in 2026 they have 21.4%, equal to ₦148.73bn. For Nasarawa there was no available data for 2023-2025. But in 2026 the percentage for education is 17.3%.

At the level of South East states I selected Enugu and Anambra states. For Enugu in 2023-2024 fiscal years there was no available data. While in 2024 the percentage was 33%. In 2025 they have 32.99% and in 2026 they have 32.3%, meaning ₦522bn of ₦1.62tn. For Anambra in 2023 the percentage was 21.6%, meaning ₦30.88bn spent out of ₦142.9bn. In 2024 the percentage was 3.04%, of ₦15.85bn spent from ₦521.5bn. There was no available data in 2025. As in 2026 it was recorded that the percentage is 46.9%, meaning ₦355bn of ₦757bn.

Under South West I chose Lagos and Oyo states. Lagos in 2023 has 6.02% for education. Meaning ₦135.15bn out of ₦2.246tn.
In 2024 the percentage is 5.62%, meaning ₦127.49bn out of ₦2.267tn. In 2025 the percentage for education is 6.1%. And in 2026 it is 5.3%, meaning ₦234.6bn of ₦4.4tn. While in Oyo there is no available data for 2023-2025. But in 2026 the percentage allocated for education was 16.4%, meaning ₦145.97bn. The range for all South West states for 2026 is between 5.3% – 16.4%.

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For South South zone I looked at Delta and Bayelsa states. Where
Delta in the period between 2023-2025, the data for such percentage is not available. In 2026 the percentage is 6.11%, meaning ₦105.08bn of ₦1.72tn. While Bayelsa also has no available data for 2023-2025. But in 2026 the education percentage for education is 7.43%, meaning ₦75.1bn of ₦1.01tn.

Looking at the above presented data we can deduce that, only 4 states crossed 26%, UNESCO recommended percentage. Kano, Enugu, Jigawa and Anambra 2026. Still Kano takes the lead. Kano still has 29.95% in 2024 and 31% in 2025.

In what I call Data Gap my reader can understand that most states didn’t publish education percentage in 2023-2024 Appropriation Laws. Especially in 2023 because they just assumed the leadership position in their respective states, that is the month of May of that year. Immediately after they were elected and emerged winners.

Kano in its budget breakdown gave the nitty-gritty areas of where those overwhelming percentage under education goes. Accountability in its purest and clearest form. I stand to be corrected. That is where I critically mean a Benchmark, that the state sets for other states of the federation.

You will come to understand that the numbers, percentages and the distribution of allocated share for education sector tell the story of political will of the people’s Governor, His Excellency Governor Yusuf.

He takes fees off parents. Under this I can say for parents in Dala, Tarauni and Rano, the impact is immediate and tangible. While the Governor feels better, because he is fulfilling campaign promises. He is managing the affairs with care, caution and prudent management.

While the Governor perfects proper management, his constituency, Kano State keeps faith in him continuously. An emerging trend of no cost barriers fills the space. Free education from primary to secondary remains. In 2025, government paid NECO, NABTEB and NBAIS fees for Kano indigenes, with over ₦4.45 billion earmarked. In 2024, ₦2.9 billion covered 109,000 students.

Population having more ccess to university increases. 10,000 SS3 students received free JAMB forms plus CBT training and transport. While another 5,000 benefited earlier.

I believe that there is new emerging perspective to classes. Which I also term as Dignity in the Classroom. This is where over ₦3.5 billion was spent to fabricate 80,000 desks for 240,000 pupils who previously sat on bare floors. In April 2026, another ₦2 billion was approved for furniture across 30 LGAs. Government also approved ₦1.5 billion for free uniforms for over 800,000 Primary 1 pupils.

At the infrastructural level again 1,358 secondary and technical schools plus 5,200 primary schools have been rehabilitated. While ₦2.7 billion was released for 176 new classrooms and 88 offices across all 44 LGAs. 250 boreholes and 820 toilets were installed. 73 buses were refurbished to convey girls to school daily. A state like no other.

Another slogan after Kano First, to me, should be Teachers First. Another very important slogan Governor Yusuf finds comfort in. S comfort zone. Hence his sudden endorsement. Which resulted into the recruitment of over 13,000. In 2025 alone, 400 Mathematics teachers and 1,600 watchmen were hired. 2,000 BESDA volunteers were converted to permanent staff. Wow! Wow!! Wow!!! For the first time in years, 39,000 personnel had their 2017-2022 promotions cleared, and salaries now arrive by the 25th of every month. Your Excellency Sir WAI DAN ALLAH AKWAI IRIN KA KUWA. I asked rhetorically.

The boarding school feeding budget was doubled to ₦4 billion, and in April 2026, the government settled debts owed to food suppliers. Feeding in Islam has a special place in our faith. Kano government under him does not stop at feeding alone. It goes with good feeding system.

I hope my reader can still remember when Kano was ranked 1st in Nigeria in the 2025 NECO results. That did not happen just like that. It wasn’t by accident. It was planned, followed process and procedures, perfectly executed, closely monitored and compassionately gave out result. What result? Emerging the First amongst all the remaining 35 states of the federation including Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.

At the level of tertiary education, I can say it is a clear case of affordability meets aspiration. At the university level, the administration attacked cost.
Where all students in state-owned institutions enjoy a fifty percent (50%) reduction in tuition fees. Foreign and domestic scholarships have been re-introduced, and the state settled fees of Kano indigenes studying nationwide. This is a case of energy meets energy. We now have an energetic state bouncing back to its past glory.

Infrastructures are catching up. The Aliko Dangote Foundation is investing ₦15 billion to upgrade Aliko Dangote University, Wudil to international standard. In 2025, Gaya Polytechnic was established. Where ₦270.9 million went to an E-Library at the College of Education and Preliminary Studies. While ₦400 million furnished Northwest University.

The debate about skills not certificates or certificates not skills or a mixture of two standpoints is faced with wisdom, experience and encouraging political will. When twenty-one Skills Acquisition Institutes were also re-opened. For our population of mostly young men and women.

Under beyond the classroom strategy the vision goes wider. A statewide survey is ongoing to identify out-of-school children and integrate Qur’anic schools into formal learning centres. Whereas ₦2.81 billion is budgeted in 2026 for Almajiri school renovation, feeding and teacher training. Cash conditional transfers continue to support girl-child education. An excellent initiative of financial inclusion for girls.

There must be reason why the world is watching Kano. Governor Yusuf’s formula is simple but radical. Every school a good school; every child enrolled; every learner engaged; every teacher empowered. A well spirited engagement of political will, quality assurance and human approach of higher standard.

It is both systemic and systematic to understand that by putting more than 3 in every 10 Naira into education, clearing teacher backlogs, removing exam fees, and measuring success by NECO rankings, Kano has moved from promises to proof, from dream to reality, from analog to digital and from weak position to stronger engagement.

Governor Yusuf once said “This is a covenant to consolidate gains, complete key projects, and build systems that will serve generations.”

As other states grapple with dwindling revenues and rising dropout rates, Kano’s bet is that the fastest route to prosperity is not oil, gas, or contracts. It is the mind of a 10-year-old in a public primary school in Gwale and elsewhere in the state.

In Kano today, hope replaces hopelessness, kind substitutes wickedness, job dismantles joblessness and progress derails powerlessness.

Adieu Abba, Adieu Baban Al’Ameen, Adieu Kanawan Dabo!

Anwar writes from Kano
Saturday, 12th September, 2026

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Opinion

Clerics Call, Citizens Cheer: Kano Rallies Behind Muhuyi’s Anti-Drug Task Force

Published

4 days ago

on

September 11, 2026

By

 

By Abba Anwar

Politics apart, if there is anything non-political that can open corridor of victory for the Governor of Kano State, Eng Abba Kabir Yusuf to secure second term in office, that thing, could automatically be his fight against drug abuse and other related crimes strategy. Not only the fight, the political will and the commitment are but best options for better result.

The leadership of the State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and other Related Crimes, under Barrister Muhiyi Magaji Rimingado and his able team, gives much hope and periscopes brighter future for Kano. Once a leading state in drug peddling and substance abuse. But in recent Kano political history, Governor Yusuf excels in the area of suffocating drug abuse and other related crimes, with the bringing on board of the Task Force.

No wonder from the Minbars (pulpits) of Kano’s Mosques to the timelines of Facebook, X and WhatsApp, a single refrain is ringing out across the state: Stand with the Task Force! The war against drug abuse and illicit trafficking has taken a decisive turn, as the State Task Force pushes deeper into the Local Government Areas with arrests, raids, sensitization and community engagement.

The result is unprecedented. When Islamic clerics are urging congregations to pray for and protect the officers, civil society groups are applauding the boldness, fearless operations and thousands of citizens online are flooding comment sections with commendations and prayers. In a moment that feels like renewed hope. Result? Kano is uniting from Pulpits to pixels, behind the fight to reclaim its streets and secure the future of its youth.

The Chairman of the Council of Ulama of Nigeria, Kano State Branch, Shaykh Ibrahim Khalil, though a gubernatorial candidate of the opposition party, calls on the people of Kano state and beyond to support the work of the Task Force and secure the future of our younger ones. This he does without any recourse to political party differences. A Shaykh like no other.

In a widely circulated video clip, Shaykh Khalil made a courageous call as he said, “I am calling on my brothers the people of Kano state and beyond to stand up, cooperate and support the Task Force led by Barrister Muhiyi Magaji Rimingado in the fight against drug abuse and other related crimes. Because the thing is really harming us as a people. It is also retrogressive to our youth.

I also call on the government to please create a platform where people will be selected to engage these young people, our future, the youth, and counsel them. So that government will come to know their problems and frustrations. With the view to proffering lasting solution.”

Reiterating his commitment and support for the Task Force’s tasking responsibility, Shaykh Khalil emphasized that, “We are absolutely hopeful that, this Committee will help much in this area of drug abuse and other related crimes.

“We are also calling on all people to rise up and help Muhuyi Magaji in this struggle with prayers. It is absolutely necessary for government to listen to these suspected criminals and know their real worries,” fatherly advice by Chairman Council of Ulama, Kano Branch.

The Commander General of the agency saddled with the responsibility of ‘Al-Amr Bil Ma’ aruf Wannahayi Anil Munkar’ (enjoying good deed and forbidden evil), Kano State Hisbah Board, Shaykh Aminu Ibrahim Daurawa, in another widely circulated video clip encouraged that, “On behalf of our Hisbah, with twenty thousand (20,000) personnel, we are sending our good wishes and commendation for the establishment of Barrister Muhiyi Magaji Rimingado’s Task Force on the fight against drug abuse, phone snatching and even the killing of innocent people.

We should all thank His Excellency, the Governor for this great work. We are calling on people to commend the Task Force. This is a very important committee for all of us to encourage and support. Imams should preach against drug abuse on Minbars. So also journalists and social media users, among many others.”

This Task Force, according to Shaykh Daurawa, “… is not for Barrister Muhiyi Magaji alone. We call on all those who support those miscreants to please desist from that. Doing that is counter-productive and bad for all of us.”

Before saying anything concerning praises Barrister Rimingado enjoys in the social media, let me begin with commending social media handlers of the Task Force. Clips of many operations are viral in the social media. So also in the conventional media platforms, especially our radio stations and other national dailies.

I personally searched many videos shared/posted on the Task Force’s Facebook handle, monitoring operations, raids and arrests. My major concern for this, is knowing how Kano people react to Barrister Rimingado’s operations and other activities under the Task Force.

While over 90 percent of the reviewed comments are praises, commendations, encouragement and prayers directed at Barrister Rimingado and his team, like 5 percent or so condemned the mode of operations and 5 percent or so condemned the work of the Task Force in its entirety. The tiny percentage that totally condemned the Task Force is mainly because of political differences. Or because they work and judge with hearsay.

Let me share some of the comments here. I visited some postings and monitored their comment sections. I also monitored shares and likes.

A fraction of my findings is briefly presented below:

1- In posting “A” there are 4.8k and 225 comments. Some of the comments are that of Sagir Aminu who said, “Our people should not politicize this problem. It affects all. May Allah see us through.” Mannir Sale Muhammad critically observed that, “Masha Allah. All what Muhiyi Magaji said is true in its purest form. I saw a boy in railway who is always intoxicated from drug abuse.” Imam Bichi commented, “We wish you the best always.”

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Bashir Nasidi Muhammad encouraged that, “We are solidly behind you in the fight against drug abuse. But you should make sure that there is a need for good investigation always. We are wishing you well.”

Jameel Yareema commended that, “I really enjoy your commitment. May Allah help you and guide you always. And whoever breaks the law should be punished.” Aminuddeen Abdullahi commended and encouraged that, “Wallahi Wallahi Wallahi we are with you always. Ours is to say may Allah protect you and make you successful Barrister Muhiyi Magaji Rimingado.”

2. In posting “B” there are 7.6k Likes, 282 Comments and 220 Shares. Under this one Sulaiman Sani said, “Truthfully this is the most important and crucial job that Abba’s administration created since their assumption.” Yusuf Muhammad commented that, “Oga this is Fashion Parade because you can’t fight drugs with (sic) telling them you are coming to them by (sic) siren.”

Hafizu Akilu said, “Whenever you see someone condemning this work of Muhuyi’s Committee he is not loving Kano. Or such a person is not from Kano. Because I observed there are a few individuals who hates Kano and they are condemning the effort.”

Hamza Musa compared Muhuyi and Wike in his comment. He said, “Wike and Muhuyi are like twin brothers. Even if you don’t like them, but you can’t deny that they are working. Though I don’t like Muhuyi because of a reason I reserve for myself, I think he deserves federal appointment.”

Musa Yunusa commented that, “Wallahi Wallahi Wallahi I’m extremely happy with what Muhuyi’s Committee did concerning those children around Nassarawa Specialists Hospital, (now called Abdullahi Wase Hospital). You always see them abusing drugs.” Abdullahi Ismail Muhammed KT, who sees the Task Force work as a mere content creation said, “This is a good content.”

3- In posting “C” there are 7.6k Likes, 282 Comments and 220 Shares. Under this Ibrahim Y. Said commented that, “If the Kano State government is really serious about this, marketers of such illicit drug should be arrested. And all routes used by them in trafficking the drugs should also be blocked.” Usman T Abdullahi, who saw the operation as a film or drama, queried that,” Name of the Scene.” To me you may not blame him. Probably he witnessed similar efforts in the past, that derailed. So it is up to the Task Force to take the challenge and prove to Usman and like-minded individuals that it is no longer as usual.

Bukhari Ashafa, who volunteered to be part of this great effort, urged that, “Please give us the phone number for giving you intel.” Saleh Nuhu commented, “Show of force. This is our collective fight.” And Usman Tijjani Abdulqadir said “Well done.”

4- In posting “D” there are 4.9k Likes, 107 Comments and 79 Shares. One Musa Ahmed encouraged that, “Wallahi whenever an educated man is assigned with responsibility he will deliver. In less that one Month Muhuyi terrified drug abusers and marketers.” Nasir Sani Dansaja who looked at the medical side of the operations advised that, “Please you should be using hand gloves next time, for safety.”

Malam Usman Fantami encouraged and appreciated the personality of Barrister Muhuyi, he said, “Whichever appointment is given to Muhuyi I believe without any doubt that, the result will be fruitful.”

5- In posting “E” there are 14k likes, 694 comments, 705 shares and 379 saved. This is a posting from BBC Hausa Service, in an interview with Muhuyi. In the comment section, one Bashir Mukhtar said, “I urge respectfully the Governor of Kano State to please encourage Barrister Muhiyi with everything and resources. So that he can work well continuously. I also urge His Excellency to please reopen Reformatory Institute Kiru and to establish another one in Kano Central and Kano North. So that the Centres can cater very well for the children involved in this menace of drug abuse. May Allah continue to protect our families and cater for those coming much later.”

Umar Usman Danlarabawa in his comment observed something critically important. He said, “Malam Muhiyi Magaji my observation concerning parents’ undertaking whose children are involved in this problem. Most of those young people engaging in this drug abuse cannot be controlled by their parents. Their hearts are that hard that they don’t even listen to their parents.

When a father is taken away by the Task Force who then will cater for the remaining children back home? When a father confessed that he can’t correct his ward, so the burden is on government to know what to do with the bad egg. But for a father who comes forward to bail his child or children, then such a father should write undertaking. I do hope that Muhuyi will see this advice and work with it.”

Abdulmutallib Muhammad Sani, in his comment adviced that, “If and only if government and Judges will support Muhiyi Magaji the effort will be successful. Because I know him as someone who keeps faith in whatever responsibility assigned to him. He is an achiever. Though I differ with him in politics, but I support him hundred percent in this struggle. There is nothing more harmful for us in Kano than drug abuse and related crimes.”

Muhammad G. Muhammad warned in his comment that, “People are taking this problem for granted. Unknown to them that this is a very serious problem. That we must all wake up an fight collectively. We just have to aid our able security agencies win this war.”

Hafizu Akilu another commentator queried with annoyance that, “In the entire world setting who gives birth to a boy and pushes him to the society for life direction, if not a Hausa man? His (Hausa man) is only interested in making love and producing babies without any recourse to how to train them in their upbringing.”

Above are some of the comments I came across with while examining how Kano people react to the work of the Task Force.

One greater thing I observed is, even the security agents going round with Barrister Rimingado for operations, are ready for the work. You will see courage, will and belief that the leader of the team, Rimingado, is courageous, unapologetic and honest in discharging his responsibility. The moral support is there, being promoted by the Chairman.

My final call is to the Governor, Sir this Task Force alone if handled well, can give you second tenure comfortably. And beyond that, it can pave your way to the Jannatul-Fiddaus.

Anwar writes from Kano
Friday, 11th September, 2026

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Opinion

Per Ishaq Samaila: “Waziri” for Strategy. “Mai Jama’a” for Service. One Man. One Mission. Ibrahim Kabir Masari

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5 days ago

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September 10, 2026

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By Abba Anwar

I read with great admiration and clear endorsement the piece by Ishaq Samaila titled “Why President Tinubu Calls Ibrahim Kabir Masari ‘Waziri’ and the First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu calls him ‘Mai Jama’a.” It is not only an envelope of precision, it is also the kind of political writing we need more of under the current political atmosphere; thoughtful, measured, and rooted in substance rather than fallacy.

Ishaq Samaila deserves commendation for capturing what many in Abuja understand but few can articulate so clearly. As he rightly noted, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu describes Alhaji Ibrahim Kabir Masari as his ‘Waziri’ — a traditional title associated with counsel, responsibility, political strategy and service close to leadership. And First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu has referred to him as ‘Mai Jama’a’ a Hausa expression meaning “man of the people.”

These are not casual and loosed nicknames. In Samaila’s analysis, they represent “… two defining sides of Masari’s political identity.” I could not agree more. And it is on this premise that I offer this addendum, not to debate, but to amplify and showcase how Masari, the man, embodies every word in that excellent article.

Being “Waziri” in tensed and difficult political atmosphere isn’t a joke. The man, Masari, is an embodiment of Presidential trust, vision for the nation and unwavering loyalty from the former. While the latter maintains a very long standing relationship. He (Masari) is entrusted with the weight of the nation’s political stability. It is to be the calm in the storm, the ear that listens as it sounds musical to it, before decisions are made, and the hand that builds bridges where others see walls and castles in the air.

That is Masari. As Special Adviser to the President on Political and Other Matters, he has operated with a rare combination of discretion, ingenuity, efficiency and effectiveness. At a time when governance requires managing 36 states, 360 federal constituencies, and thousands of political interests, Masari has been the President’s henchman and trusted anchor.

He does not grandstand. He does not seek credit. His work is in the consultations that prevent crises, in the engagements that align stakeholders with the Renewed Hope Agenda, and in the political intelligence that allows leadership to stay ahead of challenges. Also in political sophistication that strengthens presidential ambition through utilization of all options.

This is the modern definition of a Waziri: a man who serves power by serving the country first. President Tinubu, a master political strategist himself, recognized this quality in Masari and brought him closer in strategy and execution. It was not by accident. It was designed long before now. A relationship built over decades and rooted in trust.

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If “Waziri” explains Masari in the Villa, “Mai Jama’a” explains Masari in the villages, in our communities. And this is where his political genius truly shines. This is where he speaks wisdom, freedom and breaks chain of hardship, to stardom, to build a kingdom of service. He is a great leader and mentor who never left ground, grassroot. Hence, he is well grounded and firmer.

The title “Man of the People” is the hardest to earn in Nigerian politics because the people themselves must give it to you. You cannot buy it. You cannot lobby for it. You can only work for it. The title is more or less, achievable and non-replaceable. Masari toiled for it and achieved it.

First Lady’s description speaks to something deeper than politics. It speaks to character and characteristics. To accessibility and creativity. To a man who, despite holding one of the most sensitive political offices in the country, still believes in his people, still attends community events, and still understands the language of the ordinary Nigerian. Hence the initiation of many interventions. To help people become economically independent, culturally creative and politically reliable.

From Katsina to Kano, from party meetings to condolence visits, Masari has maintained what Samaila correctly called “… grassroots orientation and his ability to maintain contact with communities, political supporters and ordinary citizens.” What a reliable political figure. Reliability in its purest form.

He is proof that you can be in the room where national strategy is decided in the morning, and still be on the ground listening to market women and youth leaders in the evening. A balanced political figure, who believes strategy keeps political opponents continuously busy from a position of weakness. That balance is rare. That balance is leadership. That balance is resistance against a non-welfare state.

As Samaila concluded so powerfully, “Tinubu’s ‘Waziri’ is also the First Lady’s ‘Mai Jama’a.’ One description highlights his role around political leadership; the other highlights his connection with the people.”

In today’s Nigeria we need leaders who understand high-level politics but are not imprisoned by it. A clear explanation of President Tinubu’s symbol, a broken chain of slavery. Where poverty of rationality remains in limbo. We need advisers who can navigate complex stakeholder dynamics without losing touch with the pain and aspirations of the people. We need a Waziri who is also Mai Jama’a.

It is absolutely true that Masari depicts this with all that is said in Samaila’s article. He depicts loyalty without sycophancy. He depicts strategy without arrogance. He depicts accessibility without losing authority. The same way he depicts engagement without scarcity.

He is a bridge-builder in an age of division, where weaker opponents misrepresent facts with fictions, vision with illusion, and hope with hype. A stabilizer in an age of noise, who clearly differentiates empty noise from real choices. A public servant who understands that titles are not for decoration, they are for duty. They are for selfless service to humanity.

While I concur with the author in all his submission, let me also join him in celebrating this well-thought and timely piece. It reminds us that in the midst of our national challenges, we still have men and women in government who embody service, humility, and competence.

Alhaji Masari, by all standard, is one of them. The President saw the Waziri in him. The First Lady saw the Mai Jama’a in him. The people are beginning to see both. His interventions to his people is invaluable. His faith in this administration is absolute. His hope is renewed. His effort in renewing people’s hope is rewarding and visibly engaging.

Samaila Bravo for explaining in a more clearer terms, Waziri and Mai Jama’a in Masari. A golden coin of two inseparable sides.

Anwar writes from Kano
Thursday, 10th September, 2026

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