The recent statement credited to the National Chairman of the APC Patriotic Volunteers, Alhaji Usman Alhaji, announcing the group’s intention to form a shadow government in Kano State, has sparked controversy and condemnation from the Kano State Government. The move has been described as a desperate and politically motivated scheme with serious social and legal implications for the entire state and Nigeria’s democratic system.

In a strongly worded statement, the Kano State Government reminded the APC elements within the state that forming a government within a government is entirely illegal and unconstitutional in Nigeria. “A shadow government, as practiced in the United Kingdom, exists within a parliamentary system where opposition parties appoint ‘shadow ministers’ to scrutinize the ruling government. However, Nigeria operates a presidential system, which neither recognizes nor supports such a structure outside the institutional framework of the law,” the statement read.

The government emphasized that democracy does not permit anyone to lose their sense of judgment simply because they have lost relevance within their party’s political structure. The right to freedom of expression does not grant anyone the liberty to make reckless statements or take actions that undermine constitutional governance and the sovereignty of an elected government.

“Contemplating the formation of a shadow government is further proof of the APC’s continued plot to destabilize Kano State and create chaos. Such actions will not be tolerated by the Kano State Government. The government stands ready to take decisive action against any individual or group involved in acts capable of disturbing the relative peace in the state, regardless of their social status or perceived political influence, in accordance with the laws of Kano State and Nigeria,” the statement added.

The APC, as a party in Kano State, has reportedly lost its political relevance and influence. This latest move by some elements within the party is seen as a desperate attempt to remain relevant after its overwhelming rejection at the polls. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration was duly elected by the people of Kano State and has, within a short period, recorded remarkable achievements in developmental projects and policies aimed at improving the lives of the people.

Under the visionary leadership of Governor Abba Kabiru Yusuf, the NNPP-led government in Kano State remains focused on key sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure development, youth and women empowerment, and poverty eradication. The administration has allocated the highest budgetary resources in the country to education, ensuring significant improvements in learning infrastructure and access to quality education. In healthcare, substantial investments have been made in medical services and hospital infrastructure to improve public health outcomes.

Infrastructure development has also been prioritized, with numerous projects aimed at transforming Kano State into a modern economic hub. The administration is committed to youth and women empowerment through various programs designed to provide economic opportunities and improve livelihoods. Efforts in poverty eradication have been intensified, ensuring that the most vulnerable citizens receive necessary support.

Institutional reforms in governance have been a major focus of the administration, with policies such as non-interference in the fight against corruption and an open procurement process that aligns with best practices in accountability, transparency, and openness. The administration has taken steps to restore the integrity of the civil service and improve the welfare of government workers. Additionally, the periodic payment of gratuities and pensions for retirees, who were previously neglected by the APC government, remains a top priority.

The people of Kano State have embraced a government committed to good governance and sustainable development. No amount of political maneuvering or sinister plots can distract Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf from delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of Kano State. The APC has been reduced to nothing more than a relic of history in the state.

Consequently, the government warns that reckless and unconstitutional declarations will not change the reality that the APC has been rejected in Kano State. Instead of making self-deceiving threats, the APC Patriotic Volunteers should respect the democratic will of the people and allow Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration to continue delivering on its mandate.

Signed,

Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya
Hon. Commissioner of Information and Internal Affairs
16/02/2025