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Opinion

Securing Kano : Gov Abba Please Replicate Ganduje

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3 weeks ago

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By Abba Anwar

With the deteriorating security condition across parts of the North, Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf needs to tighten belt and secure the state for better. While effort within the space of the state is critical, working hand in hand with neighboring states is equally important.

Though it is encouraging from the part of the state government, when Governor Yusuf, in his love for peace to reign and his special interest in community policing, as he initiated Kano State Security Neighborhood Watch, it would strengthen such commendable effort when he copies from the script of the former Governor, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, CON.

During Ganduje, peace was reigning, as the then governor gave priority to some specific security models. The security condition was not abruptly spotted, everything you witnessed then was systematically designed to produce result.

Under Ganduje, there was a system that necessitated non-rivalry relationship between our security agencies. All the security agencies, saw themselves as partners, not rivals. With the cross carpeting of Governor Yusuf to All Progressives Congress (APC), I know the “soured relationship” between the state and the Police, is gone automatically.

When the former Governor was in power, I can still remember, how the Governor was monitoring major nooks and crannies of the state from the comfort of his Executive table. Many at times, I witnessed how Falgore forest was being monitored from the screen in his office. That was modern security networking.

I became convinced that the present Governor, is also concerned about the security of our land, when some pockets of bandits were tamed, around border towns in recent time. It was part of the effort of the state government that, along that line, necessitated the establishment of Kano State Security Neighborhood Watch.

It was established through the Kano State Security Neighborhood Watch Law, 2025. It purposefully aims to enhance security and crime prevention at the grassroots level. Serving a complementing role to the work of law enforcement agencies. It begins with two thousand (2,000) members as Neighborhood Watch Corps. They were all trained and deployed to various locations of the state’s 44 local governments.

I can still remember vividly clear that, during Ganduje era, Kano became the most peaceful state in the country. In fact the state was playing the role of Peace and Conflict Resolution Centre, amongst all the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

When the amalgamation of Northern Youth Groups gave an ultimatum for all Igbos to leave the 19 Northern states, it was in Kano, with Ganduje as the Chief Negotiator, that brought together Igbo leaders across the North and the leadership of the Youth groups and found an embracing solution. To what could escalate to become a national tragedy.

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I want see Kano playing similar role under Yusuf. The fact that he has the feeling in his spirit, means a lot in bringing back the glorious past. As he is popularly called “Balaraben Gwamna mai tausayi” I know he can deliver well in that area. I can see him making positive steps forward.

As tribal tension was drastically reduced under Ganduje administration, religious crisis was also at its lowest ebb. All those feats were not achieved just like. They were not accidental, but rather carefully and selectively design to produce result. A result – oriented strategy was employed. With the then Governor spearheading all moves.

The way I see and understand Governor Yusuf, is, he is the kind of a leader, who believes networking is necessary in administration. That’s why he doesn’t give a damn in promoting good governance and serving his people. Especially, as he joins the new party.

I also eavesdrop that, the Governor is making some moves to work hand in hand with the neighboring states towards peaceful North. As many security information are not for public consumption, let me put a stop here. But I heard it from reliable sources that, our Governor is making right steps in the right direction. Our other Northern Governors should please take a leaf. While we are appealing for federal presence.

Our dear Governor, Engineer Yusuf, may I kindly get your attention Sir? Let me respectfully inform you that, amongst all the officials in Ganduje administration, around the Executive space, one man, who played the most critical and crucial role in securing the state, to that glory, was the then Commissioner for Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, Murtala Sule Garo.

It was under Garo, as the Commissioner, that Security Summits were organized across our Emirates. That was done not to only incorporate our traditional institutions, but to also strengthen community policing. That initiative worked very well in securing our boarder communities and the state at large.

Garo, in my own understanding, is not only an experienced politician, who knows grassroot inclusion to the fullest, he also understands, to appreciable level, techniques of community policing in practice. We saw that under the tutelage of Ganduje. Meaning, with Ganduje as his close monitor and reviewer. Mentor – mentee relationship.

Outside Executive setting under Ganduje administration, the one and only politician I can vouch for then, was His Excellency, Deputy Senate President, Distinguished Senator Barau I Jibrin, CFR. Whose intervention in securing Kano, was visibly visible. From then to now.

DSP Barau’s intervention in state security, from that time to date, has always been, tremendous, ambitious and obvious which is widely recognized.

The Distinguished Senator, distributed hundreds of motorcycles to Police personnel, starting from his constituency, Kano North and subsequently across the entire state. He built blocks and other infrastructures in some carefully selected Police stations and zonal offices.

At the state Command level, Senator Jibrin, donated operational vehicles to the Command, at Bompai headquarters. Few months after that, he made another donation of operational vehicles and one thousand (1,000) motorcycles for distribution across the state Divisional offices. The presentation of the donation took place at a grand ceremony at Bompai headquarters also.

So I feel delighted whenever I see Garo and Jibrin close to this administration of Engineer Yusuf. I particularly enjoy this, because I see it more like amplifying the newly coined adage, Kano First.

Anwar writes from Kano
Saturday, 28th February, 2026

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Opinion

A Life of Resistance: Jesse Jackson and the Battle Against Injustice

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2 hours ago

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March 21, 2026

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By Zubair A. Zubair

Throughout history, many great men have stood up against injustice, particularly during the struggle for civil rights in the United States. Among the numerous African American leaders who emerged during the era of segregation, Rev. Jesse Jackson stands tall as one of the most influential. In my view, only figures like Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr. rank above him, not merely because of their fame or tragic assassinations, but because of the role they played in mentoring and shaping future leaders like Jackson himself.

Jackson was a protégé of Martin Luther King Jr., working closely with him in the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), where he was gradually entrusted with significant responsibilities. However, his journey into activism did not begin there, it was rooted in his life experiences.

Born in Greenville, South Carolina, Jackson faced early personal challenges. He was born to a teenage mother, Helen Burns, and his father, Noah Robinson, was largely absent from his upbringing. These difficult beginnings shaped his resilience. He later took the name of his stepfather, Charles Henry Jackson, who raised him. Despite facing rejection and racial discrimination during his formative years, Jackson persevered, eventually emerging as a student leader at North Carolina A&T State University, a turning point that propelled him into national prominence.

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One of his most notable contributions was his leadership in Operation Breadbasket, an initiative under the guidance of Martin Luther King Jr. and James Bevel. The program focused on economic empowerment, job creation, and financial independence for Black communities, echoing broader movements for self-sufficiency and social justice.

Jackson’s legacy is also defined by his powerful oratory. His speech at the Democratic National Convention 1988 remains one of the most memorable in modern political history. In that speech, he shared personal stories of struggle and identity, emphasizing unity, justice, and inclusion. His message resonated deeply, reminding audiences that leadership must be rooted in empathy and shared human experience.

Beyond activism, Jackson also served as a shadow senator for the District of Columbia, further demonstrating his commitment to public service and political advocacy. His lifelong dedication to Black empowerment, social justice, and equality earned him the trust and respect of leaders like Martin Luther King Jr..

As a society, we must continue to teach future generations about the contributions of leaders like Jesse Jackson. It is only through such awareness that we can inspire new leaders in the mold of Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, Muhammad Ali, and Marcus Garvey.

Jesse Jackson’s life is a testament to humility, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment. He dedicated his life to building a world free from racism, segregation, and inequality, so that future generations might live with dignity and equal opportunity.

Zubair A. Zubair
Journalist, Activist
Writing from Kano, Nigeria

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Opinion

A Life of Promise: Young Hussein’s Tragic Death at the Hands of Phone Snatchers”

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4 days ago

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March 18, 2026

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By Zubair A Zubair

Writing this tribute has not been easy. Each sentence carries a weight of grief, and tears fill my eyes as I attempt to put into words the pain of losing such a promising young soul. It has taken me several days after the tragic demise of Husein Bashir Sabo to gather the emotional strength to reflect on his life and sacrifice.

On 6 March 2026, the peaceful community of Tukuntawa in Kano was shaken by a tragic incident. Suspected hoodlums, reportedly phone snatchers, stormed the area to rob unsuspecting residents. In the midst of the chaos, Husein, only 18 years old, demonstrated extraordinary courage. Rather than fleeing, he attempted to repel the attackers and defend members of his community. In the process, he was brutally stabbed multiple times. Despite efforts to save him after he was rushed to the hospital, he sadly succumbed to his injuries.

My personal encounter with Husein Bashir dates back about two years ago when he first visited our home to check on my younger brother, who coincidentally bears the same name, Husein. The two shared a close friendship. What struck me immediately was his humility and respect. His greeting alone revealed the character of a young man raised with strong values and proper upbringing. It was evident that he came from a respectable home.

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Husein Bashir Sabo was a student of the prestigious Northwest University Kano, an institution known for nurturing bright young minds. For many, the question might arise: why would a young man with such a promising academic future choose to participate in community vigilante efforts?

The answer lies in the kind of person Husein was. He came from a well-established family; his father is said to be the Provost of Federal College of Education (Technical) Bichi. His decision to join the vigilante group was not motivated by financial need or desperation. Rather, it was driven by a profound sense of responsibility and compassion for the safety of his community. In a time when many people remain silent in the face of insecurity, Husein chose courage.

What makes this loss even more painful is witnessing the grief of those he left behind. My younger brother, his close friend, struggles daily with the reality that someone he grew up with is gone forever. Not a day passes without him mentioning Husein or showing someone their last conversations on WhatsApp. Losing a childhood friend is devastating at any age, but seeing such sorrow in someone so young is heartbreaking beyond words.

Husein’s story is not just about a young life lost, it is a painful reflection of the insecurity that continues to plague many communities across Nigeria. When a teenager feels compelled to defend his neighborhood from criminals, it raises difficult questions about the safety and protection of ordinary citizens.

Therefore, I call on the relevant authorities and security agencies to ensure that justice is served. The perpetrators of this heinous act must be identified and brought to justice. The blood of Husein Bashir Sabo must not be shed in vain.

Though his life was brief, his courage will forever remain a symbol of selflessness and bravery. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and community.

May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Jannatul Firdaus, and may He grant his family, friends, and the entire community the strength and fortitude to bear this immense and painful loss.

Zubair A. Zubair
Writing from Kano, Nigeria

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Opinion

Why APC H/Q Should Commend Gov Abba for Successful Congresses

Published

1 week ago

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March 14, 2026

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By Abba Anwar

Before the congresses of the All Progressives Congress (APC) were conducted few weeks ago in Kano, as obtained across the nation, many people, including myself, thought, Kano state Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, could not successfully handle the situation.

Not because he had just joined the party (APC) from New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), at least from my estimation, but because he came and met a party that was in disarray, with enormous internal crisis, from left, right and centre.

As many believe that, he is new to internal party wrangling. As he came from where there was a centralized chain of command. Where loyalty has always been hundred percent. And where discipline, at least in the definition of the leader (jagora), is straight and observed.

Governor’s acceptance of the party leadership sharing formula, without any hesitation, was sighted with relief from all party camps. More so, where the governor sacrificed his upper percentage to old APC members. This is where he reversed his 60% to 40% and gave old APC 60% at his own will.

All those arrangements and show of commitment to his new party, were concluded days before Ward, Local Governments and state congresses. The assumption was, His Excellency, the governor could only be able to soundly manage his side of the party membership during the congresses. Whereas, old APC’s sharing formula amongst them would be a bit above average.

But to the chagrin of all, Governor Yusuf, managed to have successful conduct of congresses, from bottom to top in the state. In fact the way the congresses were conducted didn’t even remind all that, the governor was new entrant. The management of the congresses were largely commendable. Though, with some pockets of complaints in some places. But even at that, the governor was able to tame the frustrations and disappointments.

Unlike in many states, where their governors joined APC in recent times. In some of those states, there were close to two parallel party leaders at the state level. Their governors were not able to manage the ugly situations with vigor and determination. Kano case shows how skilful, if you like, the governor is.

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People wish that, he applies similar skills, commitment and honesty while facing 2027. What further aided the governor to attain that height, was the true and genuine support he got from almost all APC heavyweights, whom he met when he joined the party. All the camps, within the party, saw reason in supporting the governor to deliver well in the election of party leaders in the state.

So long as the governor will understand the importance and the role of each and every heavyweight within the party, then his victory and that of the party is almost guaranteed. For example, while the support of His Excellency the Deputy Senate President, Distinguished Senator Barau I Jibrin, CFR, is needed, for governor’s successful tenure, the support of His Excellency Murtala Sule Garo, is also needed. Their support is extremely important for re-election bid. No two ways about this. The same or similar goes to other important personalities within the party circle.

As governor used wisdom and support from others, to conduct successful congresses, I urge him to use similar wisdom in sitting with Barau and Garo for the benefit of his administration to rule well and for his reelection bid to yield fruits. I know the governor is quite aware of the challenges ahead. So selective interaction shouldn’t be in his shopping list.

Please let’s face it. With all the so-called political rivalry between Barau and Garo, I am yet to come across a single person, who confessed that, either of the duo asked him or her to go and castigate the other. I’m yet to see a person who can confess to have collected resources from Barau to go and castigate Garo. And vice versa. Show me someone who said Garo gave him a penny to go to any public platform and castigate Barau, I will show you a liar. So what are we talking about.

I urge governor Yusuf to kindly put to reality, the current APC slogan in the state, Kano First. His patriotism, belief and commitment to Kano First Agenda, I assumed, was what took him away from his political godfather, the former governor of Kano state, Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso. So please and please Your Excellency, show to all that, you clearly understand the writing on the wall. Show to all that, you are really making sound preparation for 2027.

For APC National Headquarters, please look at how our governor managed the party to conduct successful congresses. His victory here spots some clue for his preparedness towards taking the party to greater height. We from Kano, need public commendation of the governor from the national body. Please make it before National Convention. Or you can acknowledge that at the Convention ground.

Unlike many other states, where their governors cross carpeted to APC, like Delta state of governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Akwa Ibom state of governor Umo Eno, Bayelsa state of governor Duoye Diri, Rivers state of Siminalayi Fubara, Plateau state of governor Caleb Mutfwang, Taraba state of governor Agbu Kefas, Adamawa state of governor Umaru Fintiri and Enugu state of governor Peter Mbah, Kano congresses have little crisis compared to all these states.

As a matter of fact, encouragement and appreciation, Kano state governor Yusuf, has every quality and qualifications to be publicly commended by the bigger APC from Abuja. With all the crisis within the party, long before he joined, he still made it possible to manage all cracking parts of the party. Yes there are issues here and there, yet Kano did better than other states where governors joined the party, ahead of 2027.

Anwar writes from Kano
Saturday, 14th March, 2026

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