Opinion

Dear Governor Abba Kabir, beware of Waiya

Published

1 month ago

February 24, 2025

By Ismail Auwal

Greetings from a heart that beats for Kano’s progress. I begin with gratitude and congratulations. Since you took office, your efforts to restore hope through grassroots projects and a commitment to correct past wrongs have ignited pride in all of us. We see the roads taking shape, schools rising, and the promise of a better Kano unfolding. For this, we thank you, sir, for leading our state toward a long-awaited dawn.

But let me take you back, Your Excellency, to a tale of loyalty forged in the fires of struggle. Picture 2019: the streets of Kano buzzing with hope, ballot boxes heavy with our dreams, and civil society organizations (CSOs)—those tireless watchdogs of justice—standing shoulder-to-shoulder with you. When the election dust settled and the courts became battlegrounds in the just concluded election, they didn’t waver.

Through 2023, as legal storms raged, they marched alongside you, their voices loud, their resolve unshaken. They were your constituency of conscience, a coalition of citizens who believed in your vision. I know, deep down, you cherish this bond—a sacred thread tying you to the soul of Kano’s people. It’s a constituency no leader would let slip through their fingers.

Yet, a shadow looms, threatening to unravel this trust. Your Excellency, a rift has opened, and it’s one you cannot ignore. The civil societies, your steadfast allies, are now locked in a bitter feud with your Honourable Commissioner of Information, Ambassador Ibrahim Waiya.

It’s not just whispers in the wind—this clash has spilled into the courts, a legal tangle that pits Kano CSOs against one of your own. I’ve watched this unfold with a heavy heart, like a family quarrel spiraling out of control, each side digging in deeper, the wounds festering.

Let me be clear: if your intent is to have an overseer, someone to bridge the gap between your administration and these vocal groups, I understand the instinct. Governance thrives on harmony, and oversight can sharpen focus. But, sir, Ibrahim Waiya is not the man for this task. There are others in your circle—steady hands with proven mettle—who could mend this divide without lighting new fires. Take Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rimin Gado, the Executive Chairman of the State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission. His dogged pursuit of justice and his knack for navigating thorny issues make him a natural fit. Or consider Comrade Nura Iro Ma’aji, your Commissioner of Public Procurement, whose quiet competence and results-driven approach could steady this ship. These are men who command respect without courting chaos.

Even though the group argues that the committee is unconstitutional, I find myself drawn to a different concern—one rooted in human nature. Imagine a referee stepping onto the pitch, not to ensure fair play, but to settle old scores. That is exactly what Waiya’s presence in this committee feels like. His history with certain groups casts a long shadow over its credibility, turning what should be a platform for oversight into a battlefield for personal grudges. And even if, by some stretch, that is not his intent, the perception alone is damaging enough. A neutral figure—one without baggage, without past feuds—would not only do a better job but would also restore trust in the process.

Now, let me speak plainly about Waiya. I have nothing personal against him—none at all. This isn’t a vendetta; it’s a plea to save him from himself. He’s wading into a storm he may not weather, a clash that could tarnish his name and, by extension, yours. Picture this: a man stepping into quicksand, too proud to see the danger, while those around him shout warnings he won’t hear. That’s Waiya right now, Your Excellency. I’m throwing him a lifeline, not a stone.

Instead of this distraction, why not let him join forces with Sanusi Bature, your Director-General of Media? Sanusi’s been a rock—steady, focused, lifting your image with every move he makes. I’ve seen him weave your achievements into stories that resonate, from the markets of Rimi to the villages of Dawakin Tofa. He doesn’t stumble into quarrels; he builds bridges. Waiya could learn from that, channeling his energy into amplifying your legacy rather than wrestling with allies you can’t afford to lose.

Your Excellency, this is more than a squabble—it’s a crack in the foundation of your support. The civil societies aren’t just a noisy crowd; we’re the pulse of Kano’s conscience, the ones who’ll stand by you when the winds howl fiercest. Don’t let this rift widen. Pull Waiya back from the brink, task someone else with the bridge-building, and let us keep marching together toward the Kano you’ve promised. The story of your tenure is still being written—make it one of unity, not division.

With utmost respect and hope,
A Concerned Voice from Kano

Ismail Auwal writes from Kano and can be reached via Ismaaga6@gmail.com

Opinion

Periscoping Waiya’s Alleged Assault on Free Press Viz the Preponderance of Mob Reasoning

Published

1 day ago

March 27, 2025

Nigerian Tracker

By Al Amin Ubandoma

The recent controversy surrounding Kano State Commissioner for Information, Ambassador Ibrahim Waiya, has sparked heated debates about free press and mob reasoning. The controversy began with an opinionated article written by one Auwalu Ismail, which criticized Waiya that was widely circulated online.

The article contained allegedly malicious and defamatory statements about Ambassador Ibrahim Waiya. As a public figure, Waiya has the right to defend himself against such attacks, and his decision to report the matter to the police was a legitimate exercise of this right.

However, the response from journalists and Amnesty International was swift and merciless. Without recourse to the violation of Waiya’s rights, they condemned his actions as an assault on free press and a threat to democracy.

This mob-like response is a classic example of mob reasoning, where emotions and sensationalism override rational thinking and fairness.

The implications of this response are far-reaching. If public figures like Ambassador Ibrahim Waiya are not allowed to defend themselves against malicious attacks, it could create a culture of impunity where anyone can make false and defamatory statements without consequence.

Furthermore, the response from journalists and Amnesty International undermines the principles of fairness and justice as enshrined in journalistic ethics.

By failing to consider Waiya’s side of the story and his right to defend himself, Amnesty international, and its co-travellers perpetuated a one-sided narrative that ignored the complexities of the issue at stake.

The controversy surrounding Waiya highlights the need for fairness and balance in public discourse. While free press is essential to democracy, it is equally important to protect the rights and privileges of public figures like Ambassador Waiya.

By prioritizing fairness and justice, we can create a more equitable and just society for all. This requires a commitment to considering multiple perspectives and upholding the rights and privileges of all individuals, including public figures.

The mob-like response from journalists and Amnesty International is a reminder that even in the pursuit of press freedom, we must not trample on the rights of others.

Indeed, Ambassador Waiya’s experience serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of mob reasoning and the importance of upholding fairness and justice in public discourse.

As we move forward, it is essential that we learn from Waiya’s experience and prioritize fairness and balance in public discourse. This requires a commitment to considering multiple perspectives and upholding the rights and privileges of all individuals.

The protection of human rights is essential to creating a just and equitable society. By upholding the rights and privileges of all individuals, including public figures like Waiya, we can create a more just and equitable society for all.

In conclusion, Ambassador Waiya’s experience serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting the rights and privileges of all individuals, including public figures.

The debate surrounding Waiya’s actions is a reminder that the pursuit of press freedom is complex and multifaceted. While it is essential to protect the rights of journalists and writers, it is equally important to uphold the rights and privileges of public figures.

Ultimately, the controversy surrounding Waiya and the opinionated article highlights the need for a more nuanced and balanced approach to public discourse.

As we move forward, it is essential that we prioritize fairness and balance in public discourse. This requires a commitment to considering multiple perspectives and upholding the rights and privileges of all individuals.

The importance of protecting the rights and privileges of public figures like Ambassador Waiya cannot be overstated.

By upholding the rights and privileges of all individuals, including public figures, we can create a more just and equitable society for all.

In the end, Ambassador Waiya’s experience serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of prioritizing fairness and balance in public discourse, and it has indeed brought to fore how not to deployed mob reasoning on issues of human rights

Al Amin Ubandoma, a Public Affairs Analyst writes from Lagos.

Opinion

Journalists: The Unseen Heroes of Development, Kano Desires Collaboration Not Confrontation

Published

2 days ago

March 26, 2025

Nigerian Tracker

BY AMINU BALA

By convention and practice, media houses and journalists have the right to express their opinions under guided principles, ethical compliance, and the rule of law.

The recent allegations surrounding the arrest and detention of two journalists in Kano State have sparked intense debate. However, it’s essential to set the record straight: the duo were only invited for questioning, not arrested or detained, for allegedly attacking the personality of Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs in one online media platform, Kano Times titled “Dear Governor Abba Kabir, .Beware of Waiya”.

Some critics argue that the police’s invitation for questioning was improper. Amnesty International, in particular as a reputable organization, appears to have jumped to conclusions without proper due diligence by condemning the police invitation, describing it as a threat to free press.

It’s crucial to verify facts before making conclusions, and Amnesty should ensure they present accurate information to maintain their credibility. It was clear that Amnesty didn’t balance findings as one of the guided principles of journalism. According to Amnesty, it heard the tidings break from the grapevine.

To this extent, Amnesty, as a reputable organization, failed to verify information through official channels, thereby perpetuating misinformation and undermining its reputation. This lack of due diligence raises questions about Amnesty International’s commitment to accuracy and fairness. It’s crucial to verify facts before making conclusions, and Amnesty should ensure they present accurate information to maintain their credibility.

In this case, Amnesty International’s hasty condemnation of the police invitation of the two suspects was premature and unwarranted. By failing to engage with an official source, as it appears, its impromptu action spurs unnecessary tension.

It is common knowledge that the Kano State Government has no issues with media houses or journalists. Instead, it recognises the critical role journalists play in promoting development and accountability as encapsulated in the 1999 Constitution as amended, which guarantees Press Freedom in Section 39 (1) and (2).Additionally, Section 22 guarantees the freedom of the press.

Against the odd, Amnesty must take steps to address its methodology and credibility concerns. This includes engaging with official sources, verifying information through multiple channels, and avoiding hasty conclusions and condemnation. Only by so doing can the organization regain its credibility as impartial human rights advocate.

The State government, in particular, acknowledges journalists as major stakeholders, bedrocks, and pillars of democracy and is committed to transparency and accountability. Collaboration, not confrontation, is the way forward. By working together, the government and journalists can provide essential information to the public, addressing the “oils and waters” of development challenges.

Naturally, every human on the surface of the earth might have or develop some glaring err, so Waiya is not an exception. It’s only God the Supreme that doesn’t err, As a vibrant human rights advocate, activist, and media acquaintance, Waiya possesses the enigmatic leadership skills to transform the journalism profession With his exceptional stamina, he is poised to re-energize and revitalize the industry and take it to new heights. As a seasoned media acquaintance and advocate, Waiya brings a unique blend of expertise, passion, and commitment to bear on his job. His leadership is a beacon of hope for a more robust, responsible, and respected journalism profession in Kano State.

As Waiya navigates the complexities of his new role, he should remain steadfast in his dedication to the principles of journalism, human rights, and democracy. His unwavering commitment to the truth, coupled with his exceptional leadership skills, makes him an exemplary figure in the journalism profession. With Waiya at the helm, the future of journalism in Kano State looks brighter than ever.

In conclusion, to cut the story short, the K
It is instructive to note that the Kano State Government values the role of journalists in promoting development and accountability. With guided principles and a commitment to transparency, the government is eager to collaborate with media houses and journalists to drive progress in Kano State.

Aminu writes from Kano

Opinion

Unity Over Division: A Counterpoint to Ismail Auwal’s Incessant Attacks on Comrade Ibrahim Waiya

Published

3 days ago

March 25, 2025

Nigerian Tracker

As I scrolled through my Facebook feeds yesterday, I stumbled upon a disturbing trend. Ismail Auwal, a fellow young colleague and member of Kano’s civic space, has been relentlessly peddling misinformation about Hon. Comr. Ibrahim A. Waiya.

His latest piece, which according to him is a “lifeline” and “a plea to save Comrade Waiya”, is merely the latest installment in a series of attacks.

Your Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, I implore you to disregard the calls and claims being peddled by Ismail Auwal against Hon. Comrade Waiya. These claims have no basis in fact and are merely a thinly veiled attempt to discredit Waiya.

I have no personal axe to grind with Ismail, but I am compelled to set the record straight. Facts matter, and it’s disheartening to see Ismail Auwal dish out unbalanced narratives about Waiya.

Firstly, Ismail’s assertion that there’s a “rift and the civil societies are now in a locked bitter feud with Waiya” is patently false. The ongoing legal suit in the Kano Civil Society Forum, for instance, has nothing to do with just Waiya.

Rather, it’s a result of the over 115 registered members who were left out of the staged drama of the Board of Trustees’ election an election in which less than 60 organizations participated, some of which are not registered members of the Kano Civil Society Forum.

Comrade Waiya, like any other individual, will inevitably face criticism and disagreement. However, this doesn’t undermine his capacity to effectively carry out his duties as Kano’s Commissioner of Information & Internal Affairs.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s appointment of Waiya is a testament to his leadership and commitment to grassroots development. Before his appointment has never been a contestant for any political position lest it be considered compensation for an unsuccessful poll.

Under Waiya’s leadership, the Ministry of Information & Internal Affairs has transformed from a dormant entity to a vibrant and active ministry. This is due in large part to Waiya’s vast experience in community development, which spans over 27 years.

His inauguration of several committees and efforts to strengthen synergy with stakeholders have yielded tangible results.

If His Excellency’s goal is to bridge the gap between his administration, vocal groups, and the inter-tribal community in Kano, then Hon. Comrade Waiya is an excellent choice.

Waiya’s presence in the committee set up to profile civil society organizations in Kano adds prudence to its effective delivery.

Waiya is a proven unifier, his character is beyond reproach, and his commitment to Kano’s development is unwavering.

It’s puzzling that anyone or group with clean hands would fear or worry about him being part of the committee. As the saying goes, “A clear conscience fears no accusation.”

Amb. Michael is the Coordinator of the Inter-Tribe Community Support Forum. He can be reached via nworisamichael1917@gmail.com