The Senator representing Kano Central Senatorial District, Senator Rufai Sani Hanga, has called for a robust separation of powers among all organs of government, stressing the need for the executive to allow the legislature to function independently.

Senator Hanga made the remarks during an interactive session with journalists in Kano, where he spoke extensively on governance, security, and his contributions to his constituency. He emphasized that his efforts in Kano Central have been “enormous,” citing projects and initiatives he has facilitated.

Commenting on recent developments in Benin Republic, Senator Hanga described the change of government there as “unfortunate,” adding that as a politician and democrat, he hopes such undemocratic actions fail. He urged Nigeria to strengthen its democratic institutions and ensure that governance reflects true democratic values.

The lawmaker criticized the President for not allowing the National Assembly to operate freely, noting that many ministers have failed to discharge their duties effectively. “That is why the President is choked up,” he said, urging better coordination between the executive and legislature.

On the withdrawal of police protection from VIPs, Senator Hanga argued that the President was ill-advised. He explained that members of the National Assembly are among the most targeted individuals and VIPS should have been provided with alternatives before such withdrawal.

Senator Hanga strongly opposed the creation of state police, warning that it could lead to abuse of power by governors. “Creating a state police means creating a police state where governors will use them for intimidation,” he cautioned. He further noted that both the police and army are already grappling with unpaid salaries, questioning the practicality of introducing another policing structure.

He revealed that 19 governors had backed the idea of state police, suggesting that their support may have been driven by panic rather than sound judgment.

Highlighting his contributions to Kano Central, Senator Hanga disclosed that he had proposed the establishment of a Federal University in Kura, which is awaiting presidential assent. He also announced plans to launch a programme in partnership with Kayi Bank to empower his constituents, particularly women.

According to him, Kano Central is the most populous constituency in Nigeria and faces numerous challenges, including a high rate of out-of-school children. He explained that his empowerment initiatives are designed to address these pressing issues.

Senator Hanga stated that he will not contest in the next election, declaring that he feels fulfilled with his service. “I am not going to contest the next election. I am fulfilled,” he said.

The Kano State Government, under the leadership of Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, organised a special prayer session where 4,444 Qur’anic reciters devoted the entire day to supplications for lasting peace and security across the state.

This was contained in a statement signed by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Saturday.

Kano State has, in recent weeks, experienced incidents of banditry, particularly in the Northern Senatorial District, where 15 persons were abducted and one woman was tragically killed.

According to the statement, the prayer session was held at the Government House, Kano, and brought together Qur’anic reciters, Islamic scholars, traditional rulers, and government officials to collectively pray against the enemies of the state, especially those responsible for the recent security challenges.

Governor Yusuf expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the successful gathering and urged the people of Kano, particularly key stakeholders, to support the government’s commitment to addressing insecurity, stressing that banditry does not distinguish between political affiliation, social status, or community.

He recalled that the ancient city of Kano and its environs have historically enjoyed divine protection, noting that the administration will continue to embrace prayers alongside lawful measures to ensure the sustenance of peace and tranquillity.

The Governor also appealed to residents to engage in personal prayers, especially during the late hours of the night, for lasting peace and stability in Kano State and across the country.

Governor Yusuf further commended the security agencies for their continuous support and sacrifices, emphasising that cooperation between the agencies and the present administration remains cordial and effective.

In his remarks, the Emir of Kano, Khalifa Muhammad Sanusi II, thanked Almighty Allah for the successful prayer gathering and called on the people of Kano to remain united in supporting government efforts toward restoring peace for the collective good.

The Emir also appreciated Governor Yusuf’s recent visit to affected communities alongside heads of security agencies, describing the action as timely and reassuring.

Sheikh Muhammad Sani Ashir led the prayers.

Leaders of various Islamic sects, including Sheikh Tijjani Bala Kalarawi, Sheikh Dr. Muhammad Sani Ashir, Sheikh Adam Abba Koki, Sheikh Bazallah, Sheikh Nasir Kabara, Sheikh Abdullahi Uwaisu Madabo, Sheikh Dr. Mujitaba Abdulkadir Bauchi, and Gwani Lawi Gwani Dankillori Maiduguri, emphasised the urgent need for continuous prayers to overcome the security challenges facing the state.

They commended Governor Yusuf for combining physical security efforts with spiritual interventions, describing the approach as bold, holistic, and reassuring to the people of Kano.

Soldiers in the West African nation of Benin have announced on national TV that they have ousted President Patrice Talon and seized power.

A message from the French embassy in Benin said gunfire had been reported near the residence of the president in the main city of Cotonou.

The soldiers also announced a suspension of the constitution, the closure of all land borders as well as the country’s airspace.

According to their statement, Lieutenant-Colonel Tigri Pascal will be leading a military transition council.

They justified their actions by criticising President Talon’s management of the country

Talon, 67, is due to step down next year after completing his second term in office, with elections scheduled for April.

A businessman known as the “king of cotton”, he first came to power in an election in 2016. He had promised not to seek a third term and had already named a successor.

The French Embassy has urged its citizens to stay indoors for their safety.

This apparent coup in Benin comes just over a week after Umaro Sissoco Embaló was overthrown as president in nearby Guinea-Bissau.

In recent years, there have been several coups in West Africa, including in Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali and Niger, heightening fears that the security of the region could worsen.

BBC