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Ballon dOr and the Credibility Question-Amir Abdulazeez

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By: Amir Abdulazeez

I am writing on this not because I have any significant concern for the award or its credibility or because it has any correlation with the wellbeing of anybody in need (which I am often more concerned about). I am rather doing so due to the massive perennial debate it generates especially among youths in Nigeria as well as the misinformed opinions around it. Again, the Ballon dOr like football itself has transcended sport to become part of international politics and history. I became shocked when I saw a globally renowned Muslim scholar congratulating Ousmane Dembele for winning the 2025 version and hailing its award to a practicing Muslim. Obviously, the crown now carries political significance that stretches well beyond the pitch.

Since its inception in 1956, the Ballon dOr has been regarded as footballs most prestigious individual award. Founded by France Football (conceived by sports writers Gabriel Hanot and Jacques Ferran), the award was initially designed to honour the best European player annually, with Stanley Matthews of Blackpool becoming the pioneer winner. Later, it evolved into a global prize, celebrating many other icons. Many have rightly questioned the credibility of the award but mostly on myopic grounds centred around player and club sentiments. However, as a long time football observer, I believe there are much broader issues regarding the credibility of the award that are worth discussing.
Let us start with the politics. During the Cold War (1947-1991), Eastern European players (more aligned to the Soviet Union) often struggled to receive equal recognition despite dazzling performances, while Western European stars (more aligned to the United States and friends) enjoyed more favourable media attention. Although Russian goalkeeper Lev Yashin won the award in 1963, many argue that his case was only the exception that proved the unwritten rule of ‘politics, geography and media exposure consistently play decisive roles’. Today, the award continues to reflect broader inequalities in football. European clubs dominate global coverage, which inflates the recognition of their stars. Players performing in less visible leagues whether in South America, Africa, or Asia rarely receive consideration, even if their contributions are extraordinary.

Another concern is the awards inconsistent eligibility rules over time. Until 1995, only European players competing in European clubs were considered, excluding legendary figures like Pelé and Diego Maradona from getting even a nomination. It was only after a rule change that non-Europeans in European leagues became eligible, allowing George Weah to win in 1995. Yet, by then, the award had already excluded decades of worthy non-European and non-European based winners. Mild allegations of racism also cast a dark shadow over the award.

Many believe players like Didier Drogba, Samuel Etoo, Yaya Touré, Sadio Mané and Mohammed Salah were routinely ranked below their pedigree. In 2021, French pundit Emmanuel Petit openly questioned whether African players were judged by double standards.

The selection of voters itself raises concerns. Initially restricted to journalists, it later expanded between 2010 and 2015 after a merger with FIFAs World Player of the Year, adding coaches and captains to the electorate whose votes often reflected tribal, national or club loyalties rather than merit. The 2016 reversion to journalist-only voting is perhaps a tacit admission of voting flaws thereby creating difficulties in comparisons across eras. For example, Lionel Messis consecutive wins (2009-2013) under a global, mixed electorate cannot be objectively compared to Michel Platinis (1983-1985) under a European-only jury. The current co-organization with UEFA, which began in 2024, signifies another attempt to lend the award more institutional weight. However, the constant changes in its format and governing alliances suggest an award in search of a stable identity, struggling to balance its commercial ambitions with its original purpose.

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Bias towards attacking players has been an emerging hallmark of Ballon dOr selections. Legendary defenders like Paolo Maldini, Alessandro Nesta, Sergio Ramos and Roberto Carlos, who defined an era of defensive excellence, always fell short. The exception of Fabio Cannavaro in 2006 along with few others in the past, after a World Cup-winning campaign with Italy, serves as a testament to the rarity of a defender being recognized. More recently, Virgil van Dijks 2019 narrow runner-up finish sparked debate about whether non-attacking players could ever realistically win in a sport increasingly obsessed with goals and flair. The award relies heavily on football journalists who often prioritize goal highlight reels, statistics and global recognition over tactical nuance and defensive brilliance. Strikers and playmakers dominate the headlines that directly feeds into voting behaviour.

To combat positional bias, a more revolutionary approach could be implemented; nomination by quota. Why not have separate shortlists and voting panels for goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders and forwards? The top three or five of these categories could then be considered for the overall voting and eventual award. This would ensure that the unique skills of each position are evaluated by those who best understand them, guaranteeing that players are judged on their specializations rather than against others with contrasting roles.

The criteria for judgment also lack clarity and consistency. Officially, the award considers individual performance, team achievements, talent, fair play and career consistency. In practice, however, voters often seem swayed by a single outstanding tournament or by sentimental narratives. Luka Modrić’s 2018 victory after Croatia’s World Cup run exemplified this. While Modrić was superb, critics argued that other players had stronger year-round performances, but the emotional weight of Croatia’s fairy tale run tilted the scales. But how comes, this same emotion did not sway voters to select any player from Leicester Citys 2016 Premier League incredible winning team? A pervasive, though often unstated, criterion for many voters is team success. To win the Champions League or a major international tournament has become almost a prerequisite for contention. This creates an inherent unfairness, elevating players in dominant teams while punishing extraordinary individuals in less successful sides. This inconsistency reveals a fundamental confusion: is the award for the “best player”, most popular player or the “most successful player”?
The timing and calendar controversies is another issue. International tournaments occur every two years, creating periods where national team success heavily influences voting. World Cup years traditionally favour tournament winners, regardless of club form. The recent calendar change to August-July aimed to address this imbalance but created new problems, with voters now contending with assessing performances from overlapping seasons and tournaments. This temporal confusion affects not just voting patterns but public understanding of what the award actually represents; is it recognition for calendar year performance, season achievement or tournament success? The 2013 Ballon d’Or win by Cristiano Ronaldo was critiqued following timing inconsistencies from odd deadline extensions. The current system, which can see a player win a major tournament in the summer and have their performance rewarded a year later, creates a disjointed narrative.

The question of authority is another big one. FIFA represents 211 national associations, UEFA oversees European football’s institutional framework, yet it is a private French publication that bestow football’s most prestigious individual honour. The comparison with FIFAs The Best awards and UEFAs Player of the Year exposes this imbalance. This raises the paradox: why should a magazine possess such outsized influence in determining footballs most prestigious individual accolade, overshadowing awards backed by governing institutions? While there is nothing fundamentally wrong with this, it only emphasizes the need for France Football to show more responsibility by sanitizing and standardizing its award.
I am not in a position to coach France Football on how to reform its awards to minimize the credibility dilemma, they have much better experts who can do that. My concern is to see young football followers and analysts become more informed and equipped for deeper debates that are beyond sentiments. My other concern which has little to do with the Ballon dOr is to see football giving a little back to its estimated 3.5 billion fans that have made it powerful. While fans give it a lot, the sport appears to be giving almost nothing significant in return. It is sad to see football remaining silent, bias and indifferent in the face of global oppression and injustice. While it took FIFA and UEFA just four days to suspend Russia after its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, both bodies have remained criminally silent over two years since Israel launched its genocide on the football supporting people of Palestine.

24-09-2025

Opinion

Why Gov Abba Deserves Another Tenure

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By Abba Anwar

Let us be honest with ourselves. When Abba Kabir Yusuf took over on 29th May, 2023, many people were doubting. Today, even his worst enemies cannot deny that Kano has moved.

I went through the project registry at the Office of the SSA Publicity. As at May 29, 2026, this government has 1,493 projects on its table. 799 completed and delivered, 694 are ongoing at advanced level. You can go and verify in any of the 44 LGAs. That is not audio project.

EDUCATION FIRST, SECOND, THIRD

Abba did what many avoided. On June 8, 2024, he declared State of Emergency on Education. And he backed it with money nobody has done before in Kano.

2024 budget – 29.95% to education. 2025 budget – 31% to education. 2026 budget – N405.3 billion out of N1.368 trillion, which is 30% of the whole budget. UNESCO asks for 26%, Abba is doing 30% plus.

WHAT IS THE RESULT OF THE MONEY ALLOCATED AND SPENT?

He recruited over 15,000 teachers. That includes 2,000 volunteer teachers who were regularized. He renovated more than 3,500 classrooms and built hundreds of new ones across the state. Free uniforms, furniture, textbooks distributed.

At tertiary level, he cut registration fees by 50% in all state-owned institutions. He paid N4.45 billion examination fees for NECO, NABTEB and NBAIS for Kano students. Go to Ministry of Education and ask.

And about the scholarship the former Governor Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso started, Governor Yusuf revived it fully. First batch 418 students, they all completed their studies. Second batch 1,001 students flagged off at Coronation Hall, Government House, Kano, 350 to India, 240 to private universities inside Nigeria. He also paid the debt left behind over N3 billion, N2.4bn to Near East University Cyprus, N500m to 5 private universities, plus N2 billion support for Kano indigenes in public universities. And for those 150 first class graduates that came back, he gave them automatic employment.

Today Kano students are Best in NECO 2024 and 2025 consecutively. An achievement celebrated across.

HEALTH – LAFIYA DOLE IS REAL

You remember how our General Hospitals were? No drugs, no light. Our able leader renovated 340 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across 44 LGAs. He upgraded over 200 PHCs to run 24 hours. He renovated General Hospitals in Wudil, Bichi, Gaya, Rano and others.

He built 10 new General Hospitals, 6 more are in the pipeline. He established Kano Centre for Disease Control (KCDC) for the first time. He revived the Drug Revolving Fund – now 90% of prescribed drugs are available.

And for our mothers – free antenatal, free postnatal, free CS for pregnant women, free healthcare for children under 5 and elderly. Over 2,000 health workers employed – doctors, nurses, midwives and pharmacists.

ROADS, WATER, LIGHT – YOU CAN SEE IT.

Dan Agundi Flyover and Underpass completed, only finishing touches. Tal’udu Cloverleaf Flyover completed, finishing touches also. These two alone decongested many parts of the city.

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Then 5km roads in each LGA, though not promise, but they are on ground. Tarauni-Hotoro-Kwanar Dawaki dualization, BUK Road, Zaria Road, Katsina Road. Panshekara Underpass to Madobi Bridge N5.2bn. Dambatta to Gwarabjawa N2.63bn.

Water: He rehabilitated Challawa and Tamburawa Water Treatment Plants. The biggest Goron Dutse Reservoir that was dead for 30 years, now back with 40.4 million litres capacity and 15.6km transmission line from Challawa. Test run already on board before the main supply.

PEOPLE-ORIENTED POLICIES THAT TOUCH THE POOR

This is where many governors fail. Our Governor went to the grassroots.

(1) Agriculture – subsidized fertilizer, improved drought-tolerant seeds, tractors, harvesters. Kano divided into three zones for mechanization.

(2) Empowerment – KEEP programme: sewing machines, grinding machines, freezers, noodle machines, soft loans for women and youth.

(3) Girl-child – He created Office of SSA on Girl-Child Education, appointed 88 girl-child advocates across 44 LGAs. Through AGILE, 148,000 girls trained in life skills, 100,000 girls got cash transfer, free school shuttle buses for girls, re-entry policy for married adolescent girls. No other governor has done that.

(4) Economy – Created Kano State Signage and Advertisement Agency (KASA) to block revenue leakages. The Agency made N300m in just 3 months, now targeting N2bn. Under him Kano acquired majority shares in KEDCO, launched Kano Electricity Policy, and secured President Tinubu’s approval for N1 trillion Kano Metropolitan Rail.

(5) Security – Kano remains peaceful. Neighbourhood security offices, support for police, DSS, Civil Defence.

And for workers – settlement of pension backlogs, which runs into Billions of Naira. After prolonged years of negligence from past administrations. With this he injected life into the near-dead families across the state. Establishment and construction of 50 low-cost houses in each of the 36 LGAs, an ongoing project. solar streetlights, 150KW solar backup.

In conclusion without taking much time to explain, let me say this, in three years, he has fulfilled over 90% of his campaign promises.

So when some opposition politicians gather and start shouting, ask them one question – where were they when schools had no roofs, hospitals had no drugs, and water was not running for 30 years?

Apart from projects and other infrastructural development, there are two major issues that are brought on board by His Excellency Governor Yusuf, in the last few months.

The first and foremost is his choice of HE Murtala Sule Garo to become his Deputy after the resignation of the then Deputy, HE Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo. Personal interest and political differences apart, there was no better choice than Garo. Looking at the prism from all angles. But His Excellency, the Governor is in the best position to understand what I’m saying. What HE Garo is to him and his administration, can best be explain by the Governor. Yes him alone (Governor Yusuf) can put it succinctly clear.

The second issue is that of the establishment of Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Other Related Crimes. As he appointed Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rimingado, as the Chairman. This agency is doing well in cleansing the state, especially the metropolis, from the activities of drug abuse among our youth. The nefarious activities of our derailed youth, popularly called ‘Yandaba’ are reduced drastically. Rimingado trails them down to their hideout.

When it comes to real politics, His Excellency, the people’s Governor, is a political unifier. A moulder of peace and tranquility among members and leaders of the ruling party, All Progressives Congress (APC). While he promotes peace in party politics, he is a bridge between divergent political interests within the ruling APC. This needs no further explanation and instances.

Abba deserves another tenure not because he is perfect, but because he has done what many could not do in many years, in just three years. The remaining 694 ongoing projects need him to finish them.

Kano First is not a slogan. It is visible remark hovering around us. His efforts, political will and delivery are visible for all to see. Let us allow him to finish what he started. The good work for a better legacy.

Anwar writes from Kano
Friday, 16th October, 2026

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Opinion

Alhaji Abba Yusuf At 81: A Life Of Service, Leadership And Traditional Responsibility

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By Baba Dantiye, MON, mni, FNGE

Eighty-one years is a remarkable milestone in the journey of life. It represents more than the passage of time; it offers an opportunity to reflect on a life shaped by experience, service and the enduring values that give meaning to human existence.

For Alhaji Abba Yusuf, Secretary of the Kano Emirate Council and District Head of Dawakin Kudu, Danmakwayon Kano, his 81st birthday provides an opportunity to celebrate a distinguished journey through public administration, trade union leadership and traditional service.

His story reflects a career spanning three important spheres of responsibility. From local government administration to the trade union movement and, subsequently, the Kano Emirate Council, he has served in institutions that require an understanding of people, respect for established procedures and a commitment to the responsibilities entrusted to their leaders.

His years in local government administration provided an important foundation for his subsequent assignments. As the tier of government closest to the people, local government operates where public policies meet everyday needs and where the effectiveness of governance is often measured by its direct impact on communities.

Service at this level demands familiarity with administrative procedures, patience in dealing with competing expectations and an appreciation of the practical challenges confronting ordinary citizens. His experience in local government therefore constitutes an important chapter in his professional journey, exposing him to the workings of public administration and the relationship between government and the communities it serves.

Another defining aspect of his career is his involvement in trade union leadership. Trade unionism occupies an important place in public administration and democratic society. It provides an organised platform through which workers articulate their concerns, defend their legitimate interests and engage employers and government on matters affecting their welfare.

Veteran union leaders often operate in demanding circumstances. They must understand their members’ interests, negotiate with management, manage disagreements and pursue collective objectives without losing sight of the need for dialogue. Such responsibilities require patience, courage, tact and an ability to balance competing interests.

The experience acquired through trade union leadership can be valuable beyond the workplace. Consultation, negotiation, representation and conflict management are essential in many areas of public life. For someone who subsequently assumed responsibilities within a traditional institution, these experiences provide a useful foundation for understanding people and managing institutional relationships.

Alhaji Abba Yusuf’s years in the trade union movement consequently form a significant part of his professional story. They represent another phase in a career that has brought him into contact with different institutions, constituencies and responsibilities.

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His subsequent service at the Kano Emirate Council represents a further chapter in this journey. The Kano Emirate occupies an important place in the historical and cultural life of Kano. Beyond its ceremonial functions, the traditional institution plays a role in community engagement, traditional administration and the preservation of customs and values that have endured across generations.

As Secretary of the Council, Alhaji Abba Yusuf occupies an administrative position that connects institutional decisions with their implementation. The office requires organisational ability, effective communication, familiarity with established procedures and an appreciation of the traditions and protocols of the institution.

His journey from local government administration and trade union leadership to the Emirate Council brings together three distinct but related areas of service. Each has its own demands, yet all require an understanding of people, respect for institutions and the ability to work within established systems.

His position as District Head of Dawakin Kudu, with the traditional title of Danmakwayon Kano, adds another dimension to his public responsibilities.

Traditional leadership remains an important feature of community life in Kano State. District heads and other traditional officeholders operate within an established hierarchy and are expected to uphold the dignity of their offices, respect local customs and contribute to peaceful community relations.

Such responsibilities extend beyond the prestige associated with a traditional title. They call for a commitment to the people, respect for institutions and an appreciation of the historical significance of traditional authority. The district headship also places Alhaji Abba Yusuf within the continuing relationship between the Kano Emirate and the communities under its traditional administration.

Taken together, his experience in local government, trade union leadership and traditional administration provides an opportunity to reflect on the different ways individuals contribute to public life. Each sphere has its own expectations, but the ability to listen, consult, negotiate and understand the concerns of others remains relevant across them all.

An 81st birthday is also an occasion to appreciate the value of experience accumulated over many decades. Society changes, institutions evolve, generations succeed one another and new challenges emerge. Those who have lived through different periods of these developments possess perspectives that can enrich public discourse and provide useful lessons for younger generations.

The value of such experience lies not simply in the number of years lived, but also in the opportunities it offers for reflection, learning and continued contribution. Alhaji Abba Yusuf’s professional journey provides a basis for considering how knowledge and experience acquired in one institution can serve as a resource in another.

At this milestone, family members, friends, colleagues and associates have an opportunity to celebrate not only his longevity but also the various responsibilities he has undertaken over the years. His career has encompassed public administration, organised labour and traditional service, giving his professional life several distinct chapters.

The occasion also reminds us of the importance of continuity across generations. Institutions endure when experience is respected, responsibilities are taken seriously and the values underpinning public life are preserved. The lessons accumulated over a long career can remain useful long after particular assignments have ended.

On this special occasion, I congratulate Alhaji Abba Yusuf, Secretary of the Kano Emirate Council and District Head of Dawakin Kudu, Danmakwayon Kano, on attaining the remarkable age of 81.

May Almighty Allah grant him continued good health, peace of mind and renewed strength. May He bless his years with contentment, protect his family and enable him to continue contributing meaningfully to the institutions and communities with which he is associated.

Happy 81st birthday, Alhaji Abba Yusuf, Danmakwayon Kano. May the years ahead bring you good health, dignity, peace and fulfilment.

Baba Dantiye, MON, mni, FNGE
Former Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs
Former President, Nigerian Guild of Editors

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Opinion

OPEN LETTER TO HIS EXCELLENCY, MR. PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU, GCFR PRESIDENT AND COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA

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Senator Bola Ahamd Tinubu

 

 

KANO AT A CROSSROADS: AN URGENT CALL FOR IMMEDIATE PRESIDENTIAL INTERVENTION TO PREVENT CRISIS AND SOCIAL UPHEAVAL

Your Excellency,

The Kano Patriotic CSOs Coalition Forum (KPCF), a coalition committed to peace, good governance, human rights, democracy and the protection of Kano State’s long-standing tradition of peaceful coexistence, writes with deep concern over recent developments that have heightened political and social tensions in the ancient city of Kano.

Kano Is At a Crossroads
We believe that the situation requires urgent, impartial and preventive intervention by the Federal Government, before the current tensions develop into a wider crisis or social unrest

Kano is a politically active and socially diverse society. Its people have historically demonstrated resilience, tolerance and peaceful coexistence. However, the current political season, combined with the continous happenings surrounding the Kano Emirate, makes any inflammatory statement, actions with provocative tendency, or political confrontation, potentially and imminently dangerous.
Our Concern Over Inflammatory Statements
KPCF is deeply concerned about the statement attributed to Alhaji Aminu Babba Dan’agundi (Sarkin Dawaki Babba), which we consider unfortunate and particularly concerning at this sensitive period. Public statements by prominent traditional and community figures carry significant influence and should, therefore, be guided by the need to promote peace, unity, tolerance and social cohesion.
Similarly, a viral video circulating on social media allegedly showed Hon. Aminu Abdullahi Warkal, an NDC candidate for the Kano State House of Assembly representing Gwale Constituency, displaying what appeared to be a pump-action rifle during a political gathering or rally in the Janbulo area of Gwale.
We have also learnt that the Kano State Police Command subsequently invited him for questioning in connection with the alleged incident, reportedly citing possible violations of relevant firearms laws and concerns relating to public peace and security. These allegations remain matters for the appropriate authorities to establish in accordance with due process.
KPCF emphasizes that, regardless of political affiliation, social status, traditional position or personal differences, public figures, political actors, traditional institutions, religious leaders and community influencers have a shared responsibility to promote peaceful political participation and social cohesion. Language or conduct capable of generating fear, anger, hostility or confrontation should be avoided, particularly as political activities and campaigns intensify.
We therefore urge all political, traditional, religious and community leaders, as well as their supporters and followers, to exercise the highest level of restraint and responsibility. We call on all stakeholders to refrain from hate speech, inflammatory rhetoric, threats, incitement, intimidation or any statements and actions capable of provoking violence or mobilising citizens against one another.
KPCF further encourages political actors and other influential stakeholders to use their platforms to promote dialogue, tolerance, respect for opposing views and peaceful participation, recognising that political differences should never become a basis for violence or threats to the safety and dignity of citizens.
At this critical period, Kano State needs responsible leadership, restraint and constructive dialogue from all sides. We call on all stakeholders to put the peace, security and unity of Kano State above partisan interests and personal differences.
The Recent Durbar Incident
KPCF is also concerned about the reported incident surrounding the recent Durbar organised by the 15th Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, during which violence was reported and campaign posters and billboards bearing the identities of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, were reportedly destroyed by some people alleged to the supporters of the 15th Emir of Kano, Alh. Aminu Ado Bayero.

Although, we have acknowledged reports that Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero subsequently and personally apologised to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf over the incident. Though, such an apology is welcomes and it certainly represents an important gesture towards de-escalation of the already heated atmosphere.

However, an apology alone may not be sufficient to address the broader concerns arising from the incident. We respectfully urge the relevant authorities to establish the facts surrounding the incident and ensure that any person found to have committed an offence is dealt with in accordance with the law, irrespective of political, traditional or social status.

Political campaign materials are part of democratic expression. Their unlawful destruction, just like any other act of violence or intimidation, should not be allowed to become normalised.
The Kano Emirate Matter and the Rule of Law
Your Excellency, KPCF is particularly disturbed about the continuing politicisation of the Kano Emirate issue.

We respectfully recognise that matters concerning the Kano Emirate have generated strong emotions across the State and that aspects of the dispute have been subjected to judicial consideration, including proceedings before the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

In the interest of peace and respect for constitutional institutions, we appeal to political appointees and government officials at both Federal and Kano State levels to refrain from making inflammatory statement or taking partisan positions on matters before the courts.

The judiciary must be allowed to perform its constitutional responsibility without political pressure, intimidation or public mobilisation.

We therefore call on all stakeholders to allow the courts to determine the legal questions before them and to respect the outcome of the judicial process.

Our Appeal for Immediate Presidential Intervention
Your Excellency, KPCF respectfully believes that this is the time for preventive leadership rather than reactive intervention.

We therefore appeal to Your Excellency to:
1. Urgently intervene in the emerging situation in Kano State and encourage all parties to exercise maximum restraint.

2. Direct the relevant security and intelligence agencies to closely monitor developments and take preventive measures against violence, intimidation, hate speech and destruction of property.

3. Call on political appointees at both Federal and Kano State levels to refrain from unnecessary involvement in the Emirate dispute, particularly on matters that are before the courts.

Reaffirm the independence of the judiciary and encourage all parties to respect judicial proceedings and decisions concerning the Kano Emirate.

Direct that political parties, campaign organisations and their supporters be protected equally and that the destruction of political posters, billboards or campaign materials be investigated and addressed according to law.

Ensure that all persons responsible for violence, regardless of political or traditional affiliation, are held accountable under the law.

Encourage traditional, religious, political and community leaders to publicly commit themselves to peace and responsible communication throughout the political campaign period.

Facilitate an inclusive peace and stakeholders’ dialogue in Kano, involving the State Government, Federal Government representatives, traditional institutions, political parties, security agencies, religious leaders, youth and women representatives, and civil society organisations.

Urge political actors to focus their campaigns on issues of development and governance rather than personality traditional institutions or matters capable of dividing the people of Kano.

Kano Must Not Be Allowed to Slide into Crisis
Your Excellency, Kano is too important to Nigeria to be allowed to descend into avoidable confrontation

The ancient city of Kano is a major commercial, cultural, political and social centre whose stability has implications far beyond the State. A crisis in Kano would affect not only its citizens but also neighbouring states and the wider northern region.

KPCF therefore considers the present moment a critical early-warning stage. We believe that decisive and impartial intervention now can prevent a much more serious crisis later.

We appeal to Your Excellency, as President and Commander-in-Chief, to use the moral authority and constitutional powers of your office to send a clear message that peace, democratic participation, freedom of expression, respect for traditional institutions, protection of political rights and the rule of law must prevail over political rivalry.

We further urge all parties to sheathe their swords, avoid provocative statements and actions, and place the peace and stability of Kano above personal, political or institutional interests.

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Kano belongs to all its people. Its peace must not become a casualty of political competition or institutional disagreements.

The Kano Patriotic CSOs Coalition Forum remains committed to working with the Federal and State Governments, security agencies, traditional institutions, political parties and all stakeholders to promote peaceful coexistence, democratic participation and respect for the rule of law.

We respectfully call on Your Excellency to act now, before tension becomes crisis and crisis becomes conflict.

May peace continue to prevail in Kano State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Yours faithfully,

Signed ,

Hassan Ibrahim Gama Mustapha Muhammed Chiroma Peter Hassan Tijjani
Convener Convener Convener

For and on behalf of the undersigned members of the Kano Patriotic CSOs Coalition Forum (KPCF):
S/N
Contact Person
Name of Organization

1
Hassan Ibrahim Gama.
Friend of the Community Organisation (FOCO)

2
Mustapha Muhammed Chiroma
Community Rights Initiative Of Nigeria (CORIN)

3
Peter Hassan Tijani
New Ethics for Empowerment and Development Initiative (NEEDIN)

4
Farouk Umar
Citizens for Development and Education (CDE)

5
Ibrahim Muhammad
Rural – Urban Slums Development Initiative (RUSDI)

6
Ruth Stephen
Touch and Care Foundation (TOCAF)

7
Maimuna Shuaibu
Muna Helping Hand Foundation (MHHF)

8
Amb. Lami Bako Yakasai
Enlightenment And Empowerment Of Northern Women Initiative

9
Abdulrahman Uba Daushe
Spinal Cord Injuries Association Of Nigeria (SCIAN)

10
Ahmad Tijjani
Alkali Ahmad Center For Development

11
Sunusi Hashimu
Society For Child Support And Economic Empowerment (SOCSEE)

12
Hassan Musa Yaro
Cardinal Aid Development Support Initiative

13
Nworisa Michael
Stand For Peace Initiative

14
Aisha Ahmed Abdulkadir
Sustainable Dynamic and Human Development Initiative

15
Khadija A. Muhammad
Nana Aisha Development Initiative (NADI)

16
Halima Suleiman ESQ
Advocacy on Human Rights and Equal Opportunity (AHREO)

17
Dr. Kabir Hamisu Kura
Community Development Initiative

18
Halima Titi Bello
Women Gender Developers (WOGEND)

19
Rakiya Ladi Musa
Ansar Women Development

20
Amina Ali Alhassan
Be My Guide Development initiative.

21
Amb. Rabi Yusuf Gezawa MON
Center For Empowerment Of Older Persons And The Vulnerable (CEOPAV)

22
Comrade A.A Haruna Ayagi
International Human Rights Network IHRN-Nigeria

23
Tijjani Sarki
Human Rights Watch And Youths Empowerment Foundation, Nigeria.

24
Ola Taiwo
Mari-Care Foundation for Widows, Single Parents, Orphans and Vulnerable Children Nigeria. (MARI-CARE)

25
Solomon Samuel
Mercy Helpline Initiative

26
Sheriff Abubakar
Sheriff Orphanage and Charity home foundation (Sheriff foundation)

27
Salmanu Muhammed
WAZOBIA International Women and Children Foundation, Kano

28
Amb. Hadiza Abdullahi kishimi
Women’s Social and leadership Development initiative ( WSLDI )

29
Grace Musa
Standup for Women Society

30
Dr. Ramatu Garba
Support For Women And Teenage Children (SWATCH)

31
Amina Aliyu Dogarai
Women and orphans charity initiative

32
Surayya Ado Salisu
ABC Road Safety Project Initiative

33
Barr. Aisha Ali Tijjani
Sayyidatu Wal adfal Foundation (Women and Children Foundation)

34
Murjanatu G. Umar
Women Empowerment, Leadership, Education, Advancement And Development Initiative (WE-LEAD)

35
Amb. Maryam Hassan
League for Societal Protection Against Drugs Abuse (LESPADA)

36
Wali Ado Rano
Voice Of The Hopeful Enlightenment And Development Initiative (VOHEDI)

37
Saratu I. Maigida
Lifeline Initiative For Widows Empowerment And Economic Development (LIWEED)

38
Sagir Salihu Chedi
Voice And Accountability Platform (VAP)

39
Barr. Mustapha Idris
Human Right and Community Initiative

40
Gharzali Ibrahim Ungogo
Ummatee Centre For The Promotion Of Public Education, Accountability And Social Safety (UMMATEE-C4PASS)

41
Aisha Halliru
Halliru Memorial Youth Development And Empowerment Initiative (AYDI)

42
Mrs. Esther Abdulahi Kingsley
Inter-tribe Community Support Forum

43
Auwal Idris Dorayi
Center For Peace And Environmental Justice CEPEJ

44
Mariya Ishaka
Albino Cluster Association

45
Sani Shuaib Rogo
Rogo Concern Citizens

46
Abubakar Shuibu Maitumaki
Youth Awareness Foundation On Drug Abuse (YAFODA)

47
Dr. Mustapha Mukhatar
Danbatta Development Forum (DDF)

48
Musa Muhammad Khaila
Community Support for Social Accountability Initiative (COMSSI)

49
Haj. Habiba Mijinyawa
Federation of Muslim Women Association of Nigeria (FOMWAN) Kano

50
Abbas Abdullahi Yakasai CISSP, IPMA
One Kano Agenda

51
Comrade Ali Wali
Network for Environmental Safety and Society Development (NESSD)

52
Hadiza Bala Fagge
Women Widows And Orphans Development Initiative (WWODI)

53
Farida Ahmed Tahir
Mata Iyayen Al’umma Foundation

54
Bello Abdulkadir Yusuf
Karaye Community Development Association

55
Badiya Aliyu
Sustainable Dynamic Human Development Initaitive (SDHDI)

56
Ruqayya Bello
Women for Women Initiative

57
Sabo Bello Madaki
Kiru Community Development Association

58
Sunusi Mamuda Wudil
Wudil Association Cooperative

59
Zubaida Umar Gashash
Youths And Women Sustainable Development Initiative (YASDI)

60
Ibrahim H. Sale
Habib Community Education Initiative

61
Khadijah Ibrahim
Adolescents Girls, Children And Research Project – GCRP

62
Sumaila Namadi Ahmad
Yadfulde Kiru Local government Association & Dev.

63
Abdulaziz Habibu Bello
Yanoko Youth Development Association

64
Umar Ibrahim Umar
War Against Injustice

65
Maimuna Umar Sheriff
Centre for Gender Base Violence Advocacy

66
Kola Samuel Asaju
KAF Care Foundation

67
Ali Suleiman
Masses First International Organization –MFI

68
Muhammed Yusuf Gama
Global Youth and Women Support Initiative – GLOYWSI

69
Abubakar Shariff Jaddah
Society for Women and Child Health Initiative (SWACHI)

70
Abdussalam Haruna
New Turn for Youth Enthusiasm & Dev. (N-YED)

71
Dalhatu Jibrin Dalhatu
Karaye Initiative Forum

72
Mohammad Lawal Datti
Initiative for Health Rescue & Risk Reduction (IHRAR)

73
Amb Dr Abdulrahman Kitilly Hudu ( Phd)
Empowerment For Vulnerable Women And Children International (EVWACH International)

74
Fatima Umar
Albarka Women Development Association

75
Mahmud Hashimu
Community Health I Initiatives and society development – CHISOD

76
Suyudi Isa Jibril
Media Advocacy for Accountability Sustainable Initiative –

77
Lukman Dayyab
Public Health Promotion Initiative

78
Amb Maryam Ibrahim Sani
Nigerian Coalition on youth,peace and security Agenda,Kano.

79
Haj. Safiyya Salisu Abdul
Support Group For Good Governance Organisation (SG3)

80
Sagir Saidu
Gyarakayanka Development Association

81
Sani Muhammad.
Annur Health And Peace Community Development Initiative

82
Ahmad Tijjani Yau
Development Insight Hub

83
Comrade Garba Suleiman Marafa
WAZOBIA Conflict Resolution And Peace Advocacy Initiative (WACORPAI)

84
Dr. Auwalu Halilu
Non-Formal Development for Education and Health Initiatives (NDEHI)

85
Yahaya A. Yahaya
National Association Of Persons With Physical Disabilities Kano Chapter (NAPWPD)

86
Dr Abubakar Ibrahim Hassan
Community Education and Health Promotion Initiatives (CEHPI)

87
Hajiya Saadatu Hashim
Concerns Mothers Association of Kano

88
Aisha Shatima
Joint Action Campaign for development

89
Najib Nasir
Northern Youth Concerned

90
Dr. Tanimu Adam Ibrahim
Gwarzo Initiative Forum

91
Aminu Sa’ad
Consolidated Ajingi Development Association.

92
Umar Iliyasu Madobi
Madobi Youth Development Forum

93
Barrister. Badamasi
Kano First Forum

94
Salamatu Sulaiman Mustapha
Salmah Africa Rescue Initiative

95
Garba Musa
Save Girls Initiative

96
Murtala Muhd Rabiu
Hannu Dayawa Youth development Association Bachirawa

97
Maryam Muhammad
Indigent Youth Education And Care Foundation (IYECF)

98
Rakiya Abba Tahula
Interfaith Peace Foundation

99
Nafisa Muhammad Ado
Anniswan Women Health Initiative (AWOHI)

100
Mohammed Hussaini
Nigerian Democracy Working Group

 

CC:
– The National Security Adviser (NSA), Federal Republic of Nigeria
– The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Nigeria Police Force
– The Director-General, Department of State Services (DSS)
– The Director-General, National Intelligence Agency (NIA)
– The Commandant-General, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)
– The Commissioner of Police, Kano State Command
– The Director, State Security Services (SSS), Kano State
– The Kano State Commandant, NSCDC

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