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RE: Kano State At A Crossroads: Setting The Records Straight On Baseless Allegations

Published

12 months ago

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Kano Map

 

Kano patriotic coalition of 87 civil society organizations have rejected a biased and politically motivated statement by league of CSOs accusing present administration of corruption.

In a statement signed by the convener Hassan Ibrahim Gama and co- convener Mustapha Muhammed Chiroma in behalf of the eighty seven groups on late Monday, the patriotic CSOs advised civil societies operating in Kano to embrace responsible engagements guided by facts and constructive partnership with government rather than partisan-driven activism.

“CSOs, NGOs and CBOs operating in Kano State should utilise available accountability platforms and networks in the state covering various sectors (education, health, environment, budget etc.) to transparently engage state government and it’s institutions”

The statement said “the attention of 87 members of the Patriotic Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (PCCSOs) in Kano State has been drawn to a press statement issued on August 23, 2025 by a group parading itself as the League of Civil Society Organisations in Kano State, wherein it made sweeping allegations of corruption and mismanagement against the present administration of His Excellency, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, the Executive Governor of Kano State”

The patriotic CSOs said, they acknowledged that every citizen and civic group has the constitutional right to demand accountability, but, they are deeply concerned that the said statement is not only premature, misleading, and politically motivated, but also a deliberate attempt to discredit the ongoing reforms of the current administration and misinform the good people of Kano State.

“The Patriotic Coalition of Civil Society Organisations therefore considers it necessary to set the record straight and defend truth against propaganda.”

OUR POSITION:
1. Allegations Are Not Convictions
The cases referenced in the League’s statement are still under investigation by the EFCC and ICPC. In a democracy governed by the rule of law, no individual can be pronounced guilty through civil society press releases. To do so amounts to media trial, character assassination, and disregard for judicial processes. As patriotic CSOs, we uphold the principle of innocent until proven guilty.

2. A Misleading Narrative
Contrary to the exaggerated picture of “systemic rot” painted by the League, facts on ground show that the present administration has introduced reforms to promote accountability, including:
a)Full compliance with external audits and fiscal reporting.

b)Adoption of the Treasury Single Account (TSA), which has reduced leakages and improved financial discipline.

3) Establishment of procurement monitoring units and anti-corruption desks across MDAs.

These are concrete actions that any fair-minded observer cannot ignore.

The group also expressed concern over Politicization of Civil Society in Kano.

“It is regrettable that the League has abandoned neutrality and chosen to align with partisan interests. True civil society does not serve as a propaganda arm of the political opposition. Reckless and alarmist statements risk scaring away investors, demoralising public servants, and undermining the developmental gains already being achieved in the state”

4. Constructive Engagement, Not Blackmail
Accountability requires sober reflection, evidence-based advocacy, and constructive dialogue with institutions—not media trials or sensational headlines.

The patriotic CSOs said it is evident that, the government of Kano State has consistently maintained an open door policy for engagement with genuine civil society actors, encouraging the League to use these platforms instead of playing to the gallery.

“OUR STAND AS PATRIOTIC CSOs
1. Due Process is Ongoing: The allegations remain under investigation, and it is reckless to hastily pass judgment before any court pronouncement.

2. Zero-Tolerance for Corruption by the Administration: The government has strengthened public procurement, treasury management, and digital payments to reduce malpractices.

3. Isolated Allegations, Not Government Policy: The acts of a few individuals under probe cannot be generalised to indict an entire administration.

4. On Development and Partnerships: Contrary to claims of lost confidence, Kano continues to attract investors and international partners in agriculture, education, and infrastructure.

The 87 groups further explained that, genuine CSOs should pursue fairness, patriotism, and fact-based advocacy rather than unverified claims that weaken democracy.

“CSOs, NGOs and CBOs operating in Kano State should utilise available accountability platforms and networks in the state covering various sectors (education, health, environment, budget etc.) to transparently engage state government and it’s institutions”

The group then called on the good people of Kano State to remain calm, discerning, and not be swayed by desperate attempts to create panic and distrust in governance.

“We urge the anti-graft agencies to continue their constitutional duties without fear or favour, but equally without yielding to media sensationalism or political manipulation”

“We advise civil society platforms in Kano to embrace responsible engagement, guided by facts and constructive partnership with government rather than partisan-driven activism”.

“We reaffirm our support for the government’s reforms and urge all citizens to join hands in preserving peace, stability, and development in Kano State”

It explained that, Kano State is not “at a crossroads” as sensationally claimed, but rather, the state is on a clear path of reform, modernization, and inclusive development under a leadership committed to transparency and accountability. No amount of blackmail or propaganda will derail the vision for a prosperous and united Kano.

“It is important to note that the so-called League of CSOs Coalition has demonstrated an inability to properly coordinate itself. This is evident as two or more individuals have openly issued disclaimers, stating that they were not part of the press release and have dissociated themselves from it.”

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The Patriotic Coalition of Civil Society Organisations therefore rejects the biased and politically motivated statement of the League of CSOs and reaffirms its commitment to defending truth, justice, and the collective interest of the people of Kano State”.

Below are the groups that endorsed this position

S/N
Name
Organization

1
Farouk Umar
Citizens for Development and Education (CDE)

2
Peter Hassan Tijani
Network for Empowerment and Development Initiative (NEDIN)

3
Yahaya A. Yahaya
National association of persons with physical disabilities Kano Chapter (NAPWPD)

4
Hassan Ibrahim Gama.
Masses First International Organization -MFI

5
Wali Ado Rano
Voice of the Hopeful Enlightenment and Development Initiative (VOHEDI)

6
Nworisa Michael
Stand For Peace Initiative

7
Dr. Kabir Hamisu Kura.
Community Development Initiative

8
Rakiya Abba Tahula
Interfaith Peace Foundation

9
Dr. Ramatu Garba
Support for Women and Teenage Children (SWATCH)

10
Maimuna Umar Sheriff
Centre for Gender Base Violence Advocacy

11
Ahmad Tijjani
Alkali Ahmad Center For Development

12
Ibrahim Muhammed
Rural – Urban Slums Development Initiative (RUSDI)

13
Abubakar Shariff Jaddah
Society for Women and Child Health Initiative (SWACHI)

14
Saratu I. Maigida
Lifeline Initiative For Widows Empowerment and Economic Development (LIWEED)

15
Ali Suleiman
Friends of the Community Organization (FOCO)

16
Halima Titi Bello
Women Gender Developers (WOGEND)

17
Dr. Yahaya Danjuma
International Peace and Secure Society (IPSS)

18
Safayanu Bichi
Kano Budget Working Group

19
Mustapha Muhammed Chiroma
Community Rights Initiative of Nigeria (CORIN)

20
Abdulrahman Uba Daushe
Spinal Cord Injuries Association of Nigeria (SCIAN)

21
Rakiya Ladi Musa
Ansar Women Development

22
Sabo Bello Madaki
Kiru Community Development Association

23
Sunusi Hashimu
Society for Child Support and Economic Empowerment (SOCSEE)

24
Samaila Namadi Ahmad
Yadfulde kiru local government Association and development

25
Asaju KolawoleKola
Kola and Funke Care Foundation

26
Ruth Stephen
Touch and Care Foundation (TOCAF)

27
Bashir A Bashir
Diamond Youth For Community Development

28
Salisu Gambo Ditol
Youth mobilization by media

29
Dr. Auwalu Halilu
Non-formal Development for Education and Health Initiatives ( NDEHI)

30
Dr. Tanimu Adam Ibrahim
Gwarzo Initiative Forum

31
Ola Taiwo
Mari-Care Foundation for Widows, Single Parents, Orphans and Vulnerable Children Nigeria. (MARI-CARE)

32
Suleiman Idris
Northern Youth Assembly

33
Mohammed Hussaini
Nigerian Democracy Working Group

34
Haj. Aisha Ahmed Abdulkadir (Dangi)
Sustainable Diana mic and Human Development Initiative

35
Gharzali Ibrahim Ungogo
Ummatee Centre for the Promotion of Public Education, Accountability and Social Safety (Ummatee-C4PASS) –

36
Rabi Yusuf Gezawa MON
Center For Empowerment Of Older Persons And The Vulnerable (CEOPAV)- Formally know as GADIAC

37
Mustapha Muhammed
Social Awareness and Community Development Initiative (SACDI Nigeria)

38
Prof Muhammad Bello Shitu
Inclusive Community Education and Development Association ( ICEADA)

39
Ismail Kanye
KABO Local Government Development Forum

40
Bello Karaye
Karaye Initiative Forum

41
Sani Bello Madaki
Kiru Community Development Association

42
Hassan Musa Yaro
Cardinal and Development Support Initiative

43
Maimuna Shu’aibu
Muna Helping Hand Foundation

44
Aisha Halliru
Halliru Memorial Youth Development and Empowerment initiative (AYDI)

45
Yusuf Muhammad Anas
Dawaki Youth Network for Better Tomorrow Initiatives

46
Abdurrashid Salisu Baba
Tsakuwa Mu Farka Development Association

47
Umaima Muhammad.
Aminci Multipurpose Development Association.

48
Hassan Jibril
Gano Development Association

49
Nusaibatu Muhammad
Iyayen Giji Development Association.

50
Adamu Balarabe Sarbi
Sarbi Development Association

51
Abdurrazak Ayuba usaini
Minjbir East Community Development Association(Mecda)

52
Zubairu Bala
Kwarkiya Youth Mobilization Forum

53
Ismaila Abdullahi
Gidan Kankara City Community

54
Audu Saidu
Mu Tallafi Juna Kadawa (B) Gwale Local Government

55
Umar Iliyasu Madobi
Madobi Youth Development Forum

56
Nura Lambu
Tofa Youth Development Forum

57
Shehu Isah
Gajida Youth Development Associations

58
Abdulaziz Habibu Bello
Yanoko Youth Development Association

59
Suleiman Lawan
Gulu Community Development Association

60
Ubale Yusuf
Kofar Gabas Development Association

61
Dalhatu Jibrin Dalhatu
Karaye Initiative Forum

62
Abubakar Auwal Ahmad
Diso Self Help Group ( DISHEG) Gwale Local Government

63
Murtala Muhd Rabiu
Hannu Dayawa Youth development Association Bachirawa – Ungogo Local Govt

64
Habibu Barau Ruwantsa
Ruwantsa Youth Development Association, Dambatta

65
Sulaiman Yusuf Maitama
Dambatta Reporters

66
Kabiru Balarabe Dambatta
Dambatta Academic Forum

67
Auwal Idris Dorayi
Center for Peace and Environmental Justice CEPEJ

68
Garba Lawan
Rano Development Association

69
Adamu Umar
Rano Youth Enlightenment Forum

70
Auwal Ayuba
Toranke Educational care & support Association.

71
Aminu Sa’ad
Consolidated Ajingi Development Association.

72
Saminu Yusha’u Chula
Chula Area Development Association.

73
Abdullahi Madaki
Kunkurawa Youth Development

74
Sunusi Garba Shehu Gajale
Kafin maiyaki Community Development Association (KACODA), Kiru Local Government Area.

75
Ahmad Tahir
Doguwa Tailoring association.

76
Abdulrazaq Ado Zango
Kano Initiatives Of Persons With Special Needs (KIPSN)

77
Dr. Mustapha Mukhatar
Danbatta Development Forum (DDF)

78
Sani Shuaib Rogo
Rogo Concern Citizens

79
Amb. Abbas Abdullahi
Beyond Border Alliance (BBA)

80
Khadija Shehu Muhammed
Save the Future Initiative (SAFI)

81
Abubakar Abdulkadir
One Voice Development Initiative (OVID)

82
Lami Bako Yakasai
Enlightenment And Empowerment Of Northern Women Initiative

83
Solomon Samuel
Mercy Helpline Initiative

84
Barr. Mustapha Idris
Human Right and Community initiative. Contact person

85
Khadija A. Muhammad
Nana Aisha Development Initiative (NADI)

86
Isyaku Ahmad
Voice And Accountability Platform (VAP)

87
Bashir Adamu Jigirya
Participatory Learning and Action for Community Ownership (PLACO)

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Call Me Chairman, Not Tony!’: Elumelu’s Blunt Correction of Trainee Splits Internet as Old Video Sparks Double Standard Fury

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A seemingly brief exchange between United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, and a female graduate trainee has erupted into a nationwide conversation about cultural values, corporate etiquette, and the politics of address, after a video of the interaction went viral on social media.

The incident occurred on Thursday, August 20, 2026, during an interactive session at the graduation ceremony for UBA’s Graduate Management Accelerated Programme (GMAP) in Lagos. In the now-viral clip, the trainee began her question by greeting the billionaire businessman with a casual, “Good morning, Tony.”

Mr. Elumelu, who was serving as a mentor at the event, promptly and firmly corrected her. According to multiple reports, he told her: “No, you won’t call me Tony. You call me Mr. Elumelu, or TOE, or Chairman.” He further justified his stance, explaining that he does not subscribe to what he termed the casual, Western-style familiarity in professional settings. “I don’t subscribe to that kind of Oyinbo life, okay!” he added.

The exchange has since polarized the Nigerian public, sparking a fierce debate on social media.

One faction of netizens has rallied behind Mr. Elumelu, arguing that the trainee’s address was a clear sign of disrespect, given his status as the chairman of a major financial institution and his seniority in age. Commentators argued that in a formal setting, the use of a title is a basic sign of respect. One social media user remarked, “Common sense should make you understand that at that moment, you are not talking to your friend, but what he is, a chairman or boss, or at least an adult that is obviously older than you.”

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Conversely, a second group has come to the trainee’s defense. They argue that modern corporate culture, even within Nigerian banks, often encourages a first-name basis to foster a more egalitarian and open work environment. A former UBA staff member, Innocent Istifanus Moses, confirmed that GMAP graduates are typically taught to address colleagues, including senior executives, by their first names. In his view, the trainee’s mistake was not irredeemable, and he advised her to issue a brief, sincere apology. “Mistake–briefly acknowledge–correct it– move on confidently,” wrote one observer.

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The debate took a sharper turn when an old video resurfaced online, showing Mr. Elumelu in a 2022 interview with Chisom Obi-Okoye, an MBA student at Stanford Graduate School of Business in the United States. In that footage, the student interviewer addressed him as “Hi Tony” multiple times without any objection or correction from the businessman.

This discovery has led to widespread accusations of a double standard. Critics argue that Mr. Elumelu is willing to accept the casual, “Oyinbo” culture he decried when it suits him in an international setting but enforces a rigid traditional hierarchy at home. One Facebook user, Awuzie Frankline, questioned the inconsistency, stating, “Respect should be consistent not dependent on someone’s status, location or social class.”

Defense: ‘When in Rome, Behave Like The Romans’

In defense of the UBA Chairman, supporters have argued that there is no contradiction, as the two situations occurred in vastly different cultural contexts. They contend that Mr. Elumelu was simply adapting to the norms of his environment—behaving like the Romans while in Rome, as it were. In a formal corporate setting in Nigeria, they argue, it is appropriate to demand the traditional respect that is due to one’s elders and superiors. As one commentator put it, the issue is about “the need to adjust to culture and nuance as they come.”

Beyond the immediate controversy, the incident has opened a wider conversation about generational differences, the clash between traditional African values and Western corporate norms, and the importance of navigating social cues in professional environments.

Jide Akintunde, a social commentator, expressed surprise at Mr. Elumelu’s objection, noting that his first name has been central to his public and industry branding for years. He suggested that the public correction, while perhaps justified, could have been handled privately to avoid humiliating the young trainee.

As of Friday, the young woman at the center of the storm has not made a public statement. The video, however, continues to trend, serving as a potent reminder of the intricate and often unspoken rules that govern professional and social interactions in Nigeria.

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