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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

Nusuk Policy and the New Face of Hajj: How Saudi Arabia is Restoring Order, Safety and Spiritual Comfort in the Holy Cities

Published

2 days ago

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May 26, 2026

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By: Lamara Garba

For decades, the annual Hajj pilgrimage has remained one of the largest religious gatherings on earth, attracting millions of Muslims from every continent to the holy cities of Makkah and Madina in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. While the pilgrimage is spiritually uplifting, it has also historically come with enormous logistical challenges, including overcrowding, congestion, heat-related emergencies, and at times tragic stampedes within the holy sites.

But this year’s Hajj exercise has introduced a different reality — one defined by orderliness, effective crowd management, improved security, and a smoother spiritual experience for pilgrims. At the center of this transformation is the introduction of the Nusuk policy by the Saudi authorities, a digital regulatory framework that has significantly reduced illegal participation in Hajj and restored sanity to the holy sites.

The policy, introduced through the Nusuk digital application, ensures that only duly registered and approved pilgrims are granted access to the sacred rituals and locations associated with Hajj. From visa processing to accommodation, transportation, identification, and access to the holy sites, every pilgrim must now be fully captured within the Nusuk system.

Anyone not registered on the platform is automatically denied access to key locations including the Grand Mosque in Makkah, the Prophet’s Mosque in Madina, Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat.

This decisive policy appears to have achieved what many observers once considered impossible — a massive reduction in overcrowding during Hajj.

For years, one of the major concerns during Hajj was the infiltration of undocumented pilgrims, especially illegal immigrants and unregistered worshippers from neighboring countries and parts of Africa. Many entered the holy cities without official Hajj permits, thereby overstretching facilities and contributing heavily to congestion around the sacred sites.

The situation often made movement difficult for genuine pilgrims who had spent huge sums of money to perform the religious obligation through approved channels.

However, this year, the story is remarkably different.

Our correspondent, who is currently participating in the pilgrimage, observed a calmer and more organized atmosphere both in Madinatul Munawwara and within the precincts of the Grand Mosque of Ka’aba.

Unlike previous years when worshippers struggled through human traffic for hours before getting access to prayer spaces or performing Tawaf around the Holy Ka’aba, pilgrims now experience relative ease in conducting their acts of worship.

In what would have seemed unimaginable in the past, this reporter was able to complete the Tawaf — the circumambulation around the Ka’aba — within just 30 minutes due to reduced congestion and improved movement coordination by Saudi officials.

The atmosphere around the Mataf area was notably less chaotic. Pilgrims moved with greater comfort, fewer physical struggles, and better concentration during prayers and supplications.

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Many pilgrims who spoke with our correspondent expressed satisfaction over the new arrangements, describing the Nusuk policy as a timely intervention that has enhanced both safety and spirituality during Hajj.

A pilgrim from Kano State, Alhaji Musa Abdullahi, said the difference between this year and previous pilgrimages was “clear and undeniable.”

“In the past, people pushed one another because of overcrowding. Sometimes elderly pilgrims suffered greatly. But this year, movement is easier and security personnel are more effective because they know exactly who is authorized to be here,” he explained.

Another Nigerian pilgrim, Hajiya Zainab Suleiman, described her experience in Madina as peaceful and spiritually fulfilling.

“You can now enter the mosque, pray peacefully and leave without unnecessary pressure. Before now, some people spent hours struggling just to find space. The Nusuk arrangement has brought discipline,” she stated.

A pilgrim from Ghana, Ibrahim Mustapha, also commended the Saudi authorities for what he called a “technology-driven success.”

“The authorities deserve appreciation. This system has reduced illegal entries and helped genuine pilgrims enjoy their worship. You can feel the difference immediately you arrive,” he noted.

Beyond comfort, the policy is also being viewed as a major safety achievement.

Hajj history has witnessed several unfortunate incidents linked to overcrowding and uncontrolled human movement. Managing millions of pilgrims within confined spaces under extreme temperatures has always remained a daunting responsibility for Saudi authorities.

But by tightening access through digital verification and restricting movement only to registered pilgrims, the Kingdom appears to have significantly minimized the risks associated with uncontrolled crowds.

Security personnel stationed across the holy sites now rely heavily on electronic verification systems linked to the Nusuk application. Pilgrims without valid permits are quickly identified and prevented from accessing sensitive areas.

The policy has equally improved transportation coordination, accommodation management, feeding arrangements, and emergency response services.

Observers believe the new system represents a major shift in how modern Hajj administration will be conducted in the future.

Saudi Arabia has in recent years invested heavily in digital technology, smart crowd-control systems, artificial intelligence, surveillance networks, and infrastructure expansion aimed at improving the pilgrimage experience.

The Nusuk initiative appears to be another major milestone in that direction.

Despite initial concerns in some quarters that the strict regulations could inconvenience intending pilgrims, many now believe the long-term benefits outweigh the challenges.

Religious scholars and Hajj administrators argue that preserving human life and ensuring pilgrims perform their religious obligations safely should remain the top priority.

Indeed, for many pilgrims, the reduced crowd this year has brought back the true essence of worship — devotion, reflection, patience, and spiritual connection without the constant fear of suffocation or physical struggle.

Inside the Grand Mosque, worshippers now spend more time in contemplation rather than battling human congestion. Elderly pilgrims and women especially appear to benefit from the calmer environment.

At Mina and Arafat, where overcrowding traditionally reaches alarming levels during peak Hajj periods, officials have also maintained tighter control of movement using the Nusuk verification process.

Many pilgrims interviewed described the exercise as one of the smoothest Hajj operations witnessed in recent years.

While no system is entirely perfect, the Saudi authorities appear to have demonstrated that effective technology, strict enforcement, and proper planning can substantially improve one of the world’s largest annual religious gatherings.

As millions of Muslims continue to arrive for the sacred rites, one message is becoming increasingly clear: the era of uncontrolled and illegal Hajj participation may gradually be coming to an end.

And for genuine pilgrims seeking spiritual fulfillment in peace, safety and dignity, that may be one of the most important developments in modern Hajj administration.

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Opinion

Professor Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo: The Young African Visionary Redefining Education, Innovation and Human Development Across Continents

Published

4 days ago

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May 24, 2026

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By Musa Abdullahi Sufi

In an era where Africa continues to search for transformational leaders capable of bridging the gaps between education, innovation, entrepreneurship and humanitarian development, one name is increasingly standing out across the continent and beyond — Professor Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo.

From Northern Nigeria to the global academic landscape, Professor Gwarzo has emerged as a symbol of visionary leadership, educational transformation and youth-driven development. His story is not merely one of personal success; it is a remarkable movement dedicated to empowering humanity through knowledge, innovation, research, healthcare support, youth empowerment and international collaboration.

At a relatively young age, Professor Gwarzo has achieved what many institutions and governments struggle to accomplish within decades. His rapidly expanding educational, humanitarian and developmental footprints have positioned him among the most influential education reformers and social impact leaders in contemporary Africa.

Building a Pan-African Educational Revolution

The rise of Professor Gwarzo reflects the growing emergence of African-led solutions to African challenges. Through the establishment and expansion of globally oriented universities and academic institutions, he has created opportunities for thousands of students from diverse nationalities, cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Among the institutions linked to his transformational vision is Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria, an institution that has rapidly gained attention for promoting international standards in higher education, innovation, research and multicultural learning. The university has become a meeting point for students from across Africa and other parts of the world.

What distinguishes Professor Gwarzo’s educational philosophy is his emphasis on practical knowledge, global competitiveness, entrepreneurship and moral development. Rather than producing graduates who merely seek employment, his institutions encourage innovation, leadership and problem-solving capabilities that respond directly to modern societal challenges.

His educational investments extend beyond classrooms. They include scholarships for underprivileged students, support for female education, and promoting science and technology.

Others include youth leadership development, research partnerships, international academic collaborations and community-based development initiatives. In many ways, his work reflects the educational renaissance Africa urgently needs.

A Vision Beyond Profit

Unlike many private educational ventures driven primarily by commercial interests, Professor Gwarzo’s initiatives consistently demonstrate a deeper humanitarian philosophy. His interventions in healthcare, youth empowerment, women development and humanitarian support reveal a leadership model centered on societal transformation.

Through the Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo Foundation, countless lives have reportedly benefited from educational support, healthcare interventions, water and sanitation initiatives, climate-related advocacy and empowerment programs.

His development model aligns strongly with several global development priorities, including, quality education, gender Equality, poverty reduction, youth empowerment
* Innovation and Infrastructure, good Health and Well-being and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

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At a time when many African youths face unemployment, migration pressures and limited educational opportunities, Professor Gwarzo’s institutions and initiatives are creating pathways of hope and opportunity.

Why Professor Gwarzo Deserves Global Recognition

The growing calls for Professor Gwarzo to receive international recognition, including potential consideration in global record and achievement platforms such as Guinness World Records, are not without merit.

Several factors strengthen such arguments. Among them listed below;

1. Extraordinary Educational Expansion at a Young Age

Professor Gwarzo represents one of the youngest African educational entrepreneurs to establish and support multiple internationally recognized academic institutions with rapidly expanding continental influence.

The scale, speed and societal impact of these accomplishments are rare within Africa’s educational sector.

2. Cross-Continental Academic Influence

His educational and institutional collaborations continue to connect Africa with global academic communities through research partnerships, exchange programs and international learning opportunities.

This has significantly contributed to improving Africa’s visibility within global education networks.

3. Massive Human Capital Development

Thousands of students, researchers, professionals and young innovators have benefited directly and indirectly from his investments in education and development.

The long-term impact of such human capital development may continue shaping societies for generations.

4. Combining Education With Humanitarian Impact

Very few academic entrepreneurs successfully integrate education, philanthropy, healthcare advocacy, youth empowerment and innovation ecosystems simultaneously at such scale.

Professor Gwarzo’s multidimensional approach distinguishes him from conventional educational investors.

5. Promoting Africa’s Positive Global Image

At a time when global narratives about Africa often focus on conflict, poverty and instability, Professor Gwarzo’s achievements project a different story — one of innovation, excellence, resilience and transformational leadership.

His institutions are helping position Africa as a center for intellectual growth and global competitiveness.

Inspiring a New Generation of African Youths

Perhaps the most powerful aspect of Professor Gwarzo’s story is the inspiration it provides to millions of young Africans.

His journey demonstrates that young Africans can build world-class institutions, v can overcome limitations, education remains the greatest investment, philanthropy and entrepreneurship can coexist and Africa can produce globally respected innovators and reformers.

In many developing societies, youths are often discouraged by economic hardship, political instability and limited opportunities. Yet Professor Gwarzo’s achievements offer a compelling counter-narrative: that transformational leadership is possible even within challenging environments.

His rise also challenges African elites, policymakers and private sector leaders to invest more aggressively in education, research, innovation and youth development.

The Future of African Transformation

Africa’s future will depend heavily on visionary individuals capable of transforming ideas into institutions and institutions into societal impact.

Professor Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo’s expanding legacy suggests that he belongs to a new generation of African builders whose influence may extend far beyond national borders.

As global conversations increasingly focus on sustainable development, knowledge economies and youth empowerment, leaders like Professor Gwarzo may become central figures in redefining Africa’s future trajectory.

His work represents more than personal accomplishment; it reflects a broader movement toward African self-reliance, intellectual advancement and transformational development.

If sustained and expanded, his vision may continue producing ripple effects across education, innovation, healthcare and human development for decades to come.

And in the history of modern African transformation, his name may well stand among those who chose not merely to succeed personally — but to build systems capable of uplifting humanity itself.

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Opinion

Amnesty International Report and My Questions to Them

Published

3 weeks ago

on

May 7, 2026

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– Sufyan Lawal Kabo

sefjamil3@gmail.com

 

The recent condemnation issued by Amnesty International against the Kano State Government over the alleged killing of five persons during activities surrounding the swearing in of the new Deputy Governor has continued to raise serious concerns among many observers in Kano.

 

While every responsible citizen condemns violence and the loss of innocent lives, many are asking whether Amnesty International acted professionally and fairly before rushing to issue a strong public accusation against the government of Kano State.

 

Amnesty International, can a government that has invested heavily in ending political thuggery and street violence genuinely be accused of sponsoring the same violence it is fighting to eliminate?

 

Would a government that established the Safe Corridor Kano Model, profiled thousands of repentant youths, and committed over six hundred million naira for rehabilitation, empowerment and reintegration of former thugs suddenly turn around to encourage killings and chaos?

 

Can Amnesty International deny the fact that Kano has battled political thuggery and Yan Daba violence for decades, long before the present administration came into office? And among previous administrations, which government confronted the problem more directly than the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf?

 

What political benefit would any serious government gain from encouraging violence against citizens at a time it is working to secure public trust ahead of future elections?

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Before issuing its condemnation, did Amnesty International contact the Kano State Government, the Police, DSS, Civil Defence, or any recognised security agency in Kano to verify the allegation properly? Or has social media content now become sufficient evidence for an international organisation claiming credibility and neutrality?

 

How did Amnesty International arrive at such a sensitive conclusion without presenting verifiable evidence to the public? And how sure are the people of Kano that those supplying information to the organisation are not politically biased individuals determined to damage the image of the present administration?

 

Is it professional for a respected international body to release emotionally charged reports involving deaths and violence without balanced investigation, fair hearing, or proper engagement with relevant authorities?

 

Can Amnesty International also deny the visible security efforts of the Kano State Government under Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, including stronger collaboration with security agencies, community security initiatives, deployment of operational support, and consistent public warnings against political violence and hooliganism?

 

If the government’s objective was violence, why would it continue investing public resources into youth rehabilitation, anti thuggery programmes and community peace initiatives?

 

The truth remains that Kano State Government has already condemned every act of violence connected to the incident and security agencies are reportedly investigating the matter. The government has also maintained its commitment to bringing perpetrators to justice according to law.

 

Amnesty International must therefore understand that careless or poorly verified reports on sensitive matters can create unnecessary tension, damage public confidence and unfairly malign governments making visible efforts to solve difficult social problems.

Kano deserves fairness. The people deserve peace. And organisations claiming international credibility must uphold professionalism, objectivity and thorough investigation before issuing reports capable of inflaming public emotions and damaging institutional reputations.

 

Sefjamil writes from Abuja

 

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