PRESS RELEASE
30 January 2026
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf Condemns Unruly Conduct at Government House, Issues Stern Warning Against Political Violence.
By Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu Democracy Newsline January 30, 2026
Kano State Governor, His Excellency Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has strongly condemned the unruly and dangerous conduct of some youths who unlawfully gained access to the Kano State Government House during the ceremony marking his reception into the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the incident as disturbing, unacceptable, and a serious threat to public safety.
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The Governor expressed his displeasure during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting attended by APC leaders, senior government officials, and key political actors, where security concerns arising from the incident were extensively discussed. He warned that such actions, if left unchecked, could undermine Kano State’s long-standing reputation as a peaceful, disciplined, and law-abiding society.
According to eyewitness accounts, hundreds of youths were sighted within the Government House premises during the event. Some witnesses alleged that the youths, reportedly accompanying Murtala Sule Garo, popularly known as Kwamanda, were armed with dangerous weapons, while others were seen openly abusing hard drugs and chanting slogans such as “Fire.” There were also reports of provocative chants calling for the removal of the Deputy Governor in favour of Garo, developments that caused widespread concern among residents and observers.
Members of the public have, in recent times, accused Murtala Sule Garo of mobilising groups of youths alleged to be involved in violent and unlawful activities to political events—an allegation that has continued to raise serious security concerns across the state. While these claims remain allegations, the Governor emphasized that no individual or group would be allowed to compromise public order or use intimidation as a political tool.
At the stakeholders’ meeting, a Special Adviser to the Governor, Muhammad Jamu, reportedly described the incident as “dangerous and unacceptable,” warning that the presence of armed youths at political gatherings or government activities posed a grave threat to democratic order and public safety. He stressed that such behaviour must never be tolerated under any circumstance, regardless of political affiliation or status.
Political analysts have also weighed in on the development, expressing concern that speculations surrounding the possible nomination of Murtala Sule Garo as Deputy Governor could fuel perceptions of internal political manoeuvring within the APC. These concerns are further heightened by reports of Garo’s marital relationship with former Kano State Governor and national political figure, Senator Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, with unconfirmed claims suggesting behind-the-scenes efforts to influence the deputy governorship position.
Government officials, however, have cautioned against misinformation and urged the public to rely on verified facts.
Governor Yusuf, in his remarks, reaffirmed his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on violence, intimidation, drug abuse, and political hooliganism. He called on party leaders, security agencies, traditional rulers, parents, and community stakeholders to work collectively to rein in unruly elements and safeguard the peace of the state.
He also appealed directly to the youths of Kano State to channel their energy into lawful, productive, and patriotic pursuits that contribute to peace, unity, and sustainable development, noting that the future of the state rests heavily on their conduct and sense of responsibility.
It will be recalled that on Monday, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf formally defected from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a political move that has continued to generate widespread reactions within Kano State and across the country. The Governor has since reiterated that his decision was guided by the interest of good governance, stability, and inclusive development for the people of Kano State.
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(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, JANUARY 30TH 2026)
