CONTRADICTION: How Abba Yusuf’s Double Standards Fueled Kano’s Destructive Protests
On Thursday, August 1, 2024, Kano, a major commercial hub in Nigeria, witnessed a wave of violent attacks by hoodlums, resulting in the destruction of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) industrial park and the looting of valuables in several other private shops and buildings.
Sights of protesters destroying government installations like street lights and traffic lights were quite disheartening.
At least, 32 suspects were arrested by NSCDC men at Sabo Gari, Bata France road while carting away with goods worth thousands of naira.
Analysts largely blame the chaos on Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s contradictory stance on protests, which they say embodies the problem of prioritizing politics over good governance.
A Tale of Two Protests
In May, Governor Yusuf swiftly banned protests across the state and ordered a police crackdown on defaulters when Kano indigenes protested the removal of former Emir Aminu Ado Bayero.
Given that he is the Chief Security of Kano, the police quickly acted on his order and took the protesters away from the streets.
Then, the Kano Governor didn’t consider that protest is enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution as the fundamental right of the citizens nor did he accuse the police of taking orders different from his from above.
Instead, his administration accused the APC of using the protesters to destabilize the peaceful state.
However, when the ’10 Days of Rage’ protest emerged, despite warnings of a possible hijack by individuals with ulterior motives, Governor Yusuf backed the protesters, citing their fundamental right to protest.
This stark contrast in approach has raised questions about his motivations and ability to prioritize the safety and security of Kano’s citizens.
Criticism and Questions
Well-meaning Nigerians have criticized Governor Yusuf’s double standards, questioning why he didn’t recognize the right to protest during the Emirship controversy.
Some participants in the destructive protest have admitted joining due to the governor’s support, fueling speculation about his true intentions.
Would Governor Yusuf have supported the protest if his party were in power or if it concerned his government? The people of Kano deserve answers.
A Call to Action
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and his colleagues must recognize that this is a time for working towards the common good, not playing politics.
With the recent increase in state allocations, citizens should demand answers on how these funds are being utilized for development projects, palliatives, and the new minimum wage.
It’s time for citizens to hold their state governments accountable and ensure that their leaders prioritize good governance over political expediency. The people of Kano deserve transparency, accountability, and effective leadership.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s contradictory stance on protests has emboldened hoodlums, undermined the rule of law, and raised questions about his leadership. The people of Kano deserve better. It’s time for change.
