Connect with us

News

Kano State Government Counters Amnesty International Report on Freedom of Expression

Published

on

 

The Kano State Government has strongly rejected allegations made by Amnesty International in its recent publication titled “Kano: Escalating Repression Endangers Freedom of Expression.” The report accused security agencies of arresting, detaining, and harassing individuals critical of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, on February 25, 2026, the government described the claims as “misleading, unfounded, and a gross misrepresentation of facts.”

According to Waiya, the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf remains committed to protecting fundamental human rights, including freedom of expression as guaranteed under the Nigerian Constitution. He stressed that at no time has the government directed security agencies to target or intimidate individuals for expressing dissenting opinions.

The Commissioner noted that while freedom of expression is constitutionally protected, it is not absolute. He explained that the law also safeguards the rights and dignity of others, adding that libel, slander, defamation, hate speech, incitement, and deliberate misinformation fall outside the boundaries of free speech. “No democratic society permits the weaponization of social media to spread malicious falsehoods or content capable of breaching public peace,” Waiya said.

Waiya further emphasized that security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS), operate strictly within their statutory mandates. He clarified that arrests or invitations are based on petitions or credible allegations of wrongdoing, such as cyberbullying, defamation, or incitement. He insisted that the Kano State Government does not control or micromanage federal security agencies but supports lawful measures to curb cybercrime.

Advert

The statement also lamented the misuse of social media platforms by some individuals under the guise of civic liberty. Waiya argued that such practices encourage misinformation and personal attacks that undermine healthy democratic engagement. He maintained that the government has a responsibility to ensure digital spaces do not become breeding grounds for disorder or reputational damage.

Highlighting the administration’s record, Waiya said Governor Yusuf’s government has been recognized as one of the most media- and civil society–friendly in Nigeria. He pointed to the adoption of the Open Government Partnership initiative, which promotes citizen participation in governance. “This development has significantly recorded the highest civic engagements in the history of Kano,” he stated.

The Commissioner also cited Governor Yusuf’s precedent-setting decision to pay gratuities and entitlements to opposition members, describing it as evidence of tolerance and inclusivity. He reiterated that citizens are free to express opinions without harassment, but cautioned that criticism must not cross into defamation or incitement.

Waiya stressed that the government does not target social media influencers or political opponents. He urged organizations and commentators to verify facts before making sweeping conclusions that could undermine state authority or create unnecessary tension.

He said, the Kano State Government is committed to democratic values, rule of law, and peaceful coexistence. “This administration will continue to uphold justice, fairness, and respect for constitutional rights while ensuring those rights are exercised responsibly,”

 

News

‎China, Nigeria Mark Friendship with Joint Cultural Mural

Published

on

 

‎A colourful mural celebrating both China’s National Day and Nigeria’s Independence Day has been unveiled at an overseas project site, serving as a vivid symbol of the enduring friendship between the two nations.
‎
‎The artwork, jointly produced by Chinese and Nigerian staff, features builders dressed in traditional Chinese costumes and Nigerian ethnic attire holding hands and dancing together.
‎
Above them, fireworks and white doves of peace illuminate the sky, while the inscription “10.1” highlights the dual significance of October 1, the China’s National Day and Nigeria’s Independence Day.
‎
‎On the left side of the mural, ancient Chinese architecture, red lanterns and auspicious cloud motifs showcase Chinese heritage.
‎
On the right, red earth, coconut palms and African drums reflect Nigeria’s cultural identity. Flowing ribbons weave across the painting, symbolising unity and shared destiny.
‎
‎Project officials described the mural as a “living testament” to cooperation at the frontline of development. They said it embodies mutual trust and support as workers from both countries overcome challenges together.
‎
‎The initiative underscores cultural integration and partnership, with both sides pledging to continue working hand in hand to strengthen ties.
‎
“Celebrating two festivals as one, we march forward with one heart,” a statement read, emphasising the commitment to write new chapters of friendship along the path of cooperation.
‎
‎The mural, rooted in the overseas project site, stands as a reminder of the brotherly bond between China and Nigeria, and the shared vision of building together for a brighter future.

Advert

Continue Reading

News

Musa Illiyasu Kwankwaso Celebrates Senator Lado @60, Says Is A Political Dogma

Published

on

 

From Muhammad Kabir Kano

The spokesperson of Political Appointees Forum from Kano State, Dr. Musa Illiyasu Kwankwaso, has described Senator Basheer Lado, the Special Adviser to President Tinubu on National Assembly Matters (Senate), who also doubles as the Chairman of the Appointees, on his 60th birthday, as a Political Blog who plays the game with maturity and respect.

Kwankwaso who also describes Senator as Political Dogma, praised his contributions to democratic governance, humanitarian services and national development.

“Senator Lado is a dependable public servant and accomplished legislator whose experience had helped strengthen relations between the Executive and the Senate and also steer ship the activities of the Political Appointees with huge respect and understanding”,

Advert

He said it is on notice that Lado served in the Senate for four years before his by late President Buhari on Relief agency and subsequent appointment as Tinubu’s liaison officer in the upper chamber of the National Assembly.

Lado represented Kano Central Senatorial District in the Seventh National Assembly from 2011 to 2015, where he served as Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works.

Lado facilitated several constituency projects, including the Kundila Bridge, popularly known as Gadar Lado, in Kano State. His contributions to humanitarian services through his previous roles as Federal Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, and Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).

He said Lado contributed to protecting vulnerable Nigerians, combating human trafficking and improving the welfare and rehabilitation of displaced persons.

Kwankwaso further commended the senator’s humanitarian initiatives through the Ladon Alheri Foundation, particularly in education, healthcare, women’s economic empowerment, rural water supply and support for disadvantaged communities.

” Lado’s contributions across public service reflected his commitment to national development and the welfare of Nigerians”, he added.

Continue Reading

News

EFCC Reopens Atiku’s Alleged Financial Crimes Probe

Published

on

 

By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reopened its investigation into allegations against former Vice President Atiku Abubakar following a petition by former House of Representatives member, Hon. Ehiozuwa Johnson Agbonayinma, seeking his prosecution over alleged financial crimes.

The petition seeks to revive a case dating back to 2006, asking the anti-graft agency to revisit its investigation under former chairman, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and consider a subsequent report by a United States Senate subcommittee.

Speaking on the development, Agbonayinma said the EFCC had acknowledged his petition, dated August 27, 2026, and received on September 1. Filed through his lawyer, Chief Hannibal Egbe Uwaifo, SAN, the petition asks the commission to reactivate its earlier report and act on the allegations.

Advert

The former lawmaker appeared at the EFCC headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, where he adopted the petition and answered questions from investigators.

Agbonayinma said the matter should not be allowed to remain unresolved.

“I want to thank Nigerians, the EFCC, and those praying for me in this struggle. The laws are meant for both the rich and the poor. After the EFCC has done a fantastic job, it should not be kept under the table,” he said.

In the petition, Agbonayinma urged the EFCC to revisit its September 2006 report on Atiku and a February 4, 2010, report by the US Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, arguing that both documents should form the basis for renewed action.

The petition alleged that the EFCC had previously indicated that Atiku could face prosecution after leaving office as vice-president, when his constitutional immunity ceased to apply, but that no prosecution followed.

Agbonayinma described the alleged failure to act as a dereliction of duty and argued that pursuing the matter would demonstrate the commission’s resolve to hold politically influential figures accountable.

He also disclosed that he had petitioned US President Donald Trump over the allegations.

The EFCC spokesman, Dele Oyewale, had yet to respond to messages seeking an update on the investigation as of the time of filing this report.

Continue Reading

Trending