Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the 2023 NNPP presidential candidate, has expressed strong reservations about the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. In a statement shared on his verified Facebook page, Kwankwaso reflected on past political missteps and warned against repeating history.

Kwankwaso drew parallels to the events of 1992/93, recalling how parliamentarians in the National Assembly were distracted by leadership tussles, neglecting their legislative duties. He noted that this failure allowed executive actions to go unchecked, leading to significant political upheavals that still resonate in Nigeria’s history.

Addressing the current situation in Rivers State, Kwankwaso criticized President Bola Tinubu’s decision to suspend Governor Similayi Fubara, his deputy, and legislators. He described the move as unilateral and deeply troubling, emphasizing that the legislature’s role is to hold the executive accountable, not to act as a rubber stamp.

Kwankwaso expressed disappointment in the 10th Assembly for ratifying the president’s proclamation without proper scrutiny. He highlighted the use of a voice vote, rather than a transparent and constitutionally mandated method, as a serious breach of democratic principles. According to him, the speed and manner of the decision undermine the democratic leadership structure in Rivers State.

The judiciary’s role in maintaining balance and fairness was also a focal point of Kwankwaso’s statement. He urged Nigeria’s legal custodians to deliver impartial judgments, free from external influences, to restore public confidence and calm tensions.

Kwankwaso labeled the suspension of elected officials as unconstitutional and a potential catalyst for anarchy. He criticized the National Assembly for enabling such actions, urging them to act as a check on executive overreach rather than complicit participants.

The former presidential candidate also raised concerns about the reintroduction of military involvement in governance. He warned that this move could reverse the progress made in Nigeria’s 26 years of democracy, referencing former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s efforts to confine the military to their barracks.

Kwankwaso further criticized the Attorney General’s statements following the proclamation, arguing that they have unsettled opposition-led states and set a dangerous precedent for federal-state relations. He contended that the situation in Rivers State does not justify such an extreme interpretation of Section 305(1) of the 1999 Constitution.

In conclusion, Kwankwaso described the president’s actions as an unconstitutional overreach with the potential to foster a culture of impunity if left unchecked. His reflections serve as a cautionary tale for Nigeria’s democratic journey, urging all stakeholders to prioritize the rule of law and democratic principles.

The Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sanitizing media content, particularly in political broadcasts.

The Commissioner made this statement during a meeting with broadcast stations organized by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC).

Comrade Waiya noted that since assuming office, he has engaged with key stakeholders, including the Gauta Club, Heads of the Kano Media Forum, the Kano State Political Presenters Association, and the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters.

He said these engagements aim to promote the use of refined language in media Programmes especially in discussions advocating for political leaders on radio.

The Commissioner further emphasized that the government prioritizes training and retraining for all stakeholders. He added that the Ministry will ensure that all Information Officers attached to MDAs and local government areas are registered with relevant professional bodies to enhance effective reporting and information dissemination.

The Commissioner also cautioned against the rising trend of fake news, noting that the widespread use of smartphones has made it easy for misinformation to spread.

He stressed that unverified reports and misinformation pose a serious threat to public peace and must be curbed through responsible journalism.

In his address, the Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Mr. Charles Ebuebu, represented by the Director of Monitoring at NBC, Dr. Susan Obi, emphasized that broadcasting is built on core principles of professionalism, creativity, innovation, truth, fairness, and respect.

However, he expressed concern that recent trends in Kano have shown a departure from these fundamental principles.

The Director-General observed that some broadcasters have abandoned mutual respect, courtesy, and decorum, instead engaging in character assassination and defamation.

“As leaders in the broadcasting industry, we have a responsibility to uphold the highest standards of journalism to inform, educate, and entertain our audiences without resorting to sensationalism, malicious innuendos, or personal attacks. Unfortunately, these negative tendencies have eroded the institutionalized culture of the Kano people,” he stated.

A veteran journalist and retired Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Ahmed Aminu, was among the paper presenters at the meeting with the broadcast stations.

APC youth activist Sadiq Ali Sango has strongly defended Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, against criticisms over his recent Ramadan charity initiative in Northern Nigeria. Speaking at a press conference in Kano, Sango condemned what he described as unjust attacks on Seyi Tinubu’s efforts to provide iftar and distribute foodstuffs to the needy.

Sango emphasized that Islam encourages charity, particularly during Ramadan, and questioned why Seyi Tinubu was being singled out for criticism.
“Countless individuals, organizations, and governments engage in similar acts of kindness. Why, then, is Seyi Tinubu being condemned?”

He pointed out that the Kano State government had allocated over ₦8 billion for the Ramadan feeding program, which was widely celebrated, yet some detractors criticized Seyi Tinubu’s initiative because he is the President’s son.
Sango also cited the example of the Kano Governor’s son, who distributed rice to party members without facing backlash.

The activist further argued that Seyi Tinubu had stepped up to defend his father’s administration because some Northern appointees had failed to do so. “He has taken the bold step to engage directly with the people, promoting unity and showing that this government cares about every Nigerian, regardless of region or religion.”

He also issued a warning to the son of the Bauchi State Governor, accusing him of leading opposition against Seyi Tinubu. Sango urged him to focus on supporting his father in developing Bauchi State rather than engaging in political battles.

The APC youth leader concluded by commending Seyi Tinubu for his commitment to service and urged him to continue his good work.
“We remain loyal and resolute to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration.”

Sango’s remarks come amid ongoing debates over Seyi Tinubu’s growing political involvement, particularly in the North, where opinions remain divided on his role in national affairs.