As part of the activities to mark his first anniversary in office, which coincided with Democracy Day celebrations, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State delivered a statewide address in which he issued stern warnings to those intending to disrupt the peace of the state. The governor’s speech was a mix of threats against troublemakers and a showcase of his administration’s achievements over the past year.
In his address, Governor Yusuf made it clear that his administration would not tolerate any attempts to create unrest in Kano. “Anybody found guilty of these offences will face the full wrath of the law. The government is fully aware of recent activities by enemies of the state who will stop at nothing to ferment crises using thugs to attack innocent citizens, especially in the metropolis,” he said. He warned those involved in such activities to stay clear of the state or risk facing severe legal consequences.
The governor’s remarks were not just about maintaining law and order; he also took the opportunity to praise the administration of President Bola Tinubu for upholding the independence of the judiciary, particularly in matters related to elections. This nod to the federal government was interwoven with a rundown of his administration’s accomplishments, reflecting a mix of gratitude and self-promotion.
Highlighting his administration’s efforts to fulfill campaign promises, Governor Yusuf detailed several initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Kano’s residents. Among these, he mentioned the sponsorship and organization of a mass wedding for 1,800 couples, which included the provision of furniture, dowry, and capital for small and medium enterprises. This initiative alone cost the government over N2.8 billion.
Further emphasizing his commitment to social welfare, the governor noted the distribution of rice and other assorted grains to vulnerable groups in the state. This palliative measure, provided free of charge, amounted to N7 billion. Additionally, the state government spent N2.9 billion to cover NECO and UTME exam fees for students. “If I may ask, are all these not human capital developments? Where else than in Kano do you find such feats?” he questioned rhetorically, underscoring the impact of these programs.
The governor’s achievements did not go unnoticed by the Kwankwasiya movement of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), under whose banner he contested the 2023 elections. The movement organized a series of events to celebrate Yusuf’s first year in office. According to Tijjani Gandu, Chairman of the Anniversary Committee, the celebrations were a testament to the governor’s remarkable achievements within such a short time. “Abba has achieved much more than his predecessors in so short a time. He built and rehabilitated several roads, hospitals, and schools,” Gandu said, reflecting the broad scope of the governor’s development agenda.
These celebratory events drew large crowds, including supporters of the Kwankwasiya movement, musicians, and actors from the Kano-based Hausa movie industry, Kannywood. The presence of these cultural icons added a festive atmosphere to the anniversary celebrations, highlighting the intersection of politics and culture in Kano.
However, beneath the surface of these celebrations lies a tense political atmosphere. The political landscape in Kano has been significantly influenced by Governor Yusuf’s controversial decisions, particularly the dethronement of Aminu Ado Bayero and four other emirs. This move was coupled with the reinstatement of Muhammad Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano, a decision that has stirred political tensions and divided public opinion.
Governor Yusuf’s first year in office has thus been a blend of significant achievements and contentious decisions. His administration’s efforts to improve infrastructure and social welfare are commendable, yet the political undercurrents suggest a complex and challenging path ahead. As Kano navigates these turbulent waters, the governor’s future actions will undoubtedly continue to shape the state’s political and social landscape.
