RIGHT OF REPLY AND REBUTTAL:-
Re: Allegations Against the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau I. Jibrin.
Our attention has been drawn to a publication titled “Barau ‘Behind Gawuna’s Exit From APC, Opposed To Garo’s Emergence As Kano Deputy Governor’ — Group”
By Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu
Democracy Newsline Northern Bureau Chief
April 9, 2026.
Our attention has been drawn to a publication titled “Barau ‘Behind Gawuna’s Exit from APC, Opposed to Garo’s Emergence As Kano Deputy Governor’ by the so call group and attributed to a faceless pressure group under the leadership of one Hafizu Idris.
On behalf of the Kano Concerned Citizens, a body representing members drawn from all the 44 Local Government Areas of Kano State, we categorically reject and condemn the baseless, malicious, and politically motivated allegations contained in the said publication.
First and foremost, it is important to state that Senator Barau I. Jibrin, the Deputy Senate President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is a statesman of proven integrity, discipline, and unwavering commitment to democratic values and party cohesion.
The attempt to link him with the internal decisions of individual politicians, including the alleged defection of Alhaji Yusuf Gawuna, is not only unfounded but also a deliberate distortion of facts aimed at misleading the public.
The claim that Senator Barau frustrated any political appointment or contributed to the movement of party members across political platforms is entirely speculative and unsupported by any credible evidence. Political decisions such as defection are personal and strategic choices made by individuals based on a variety of factors, and it is both unfair and irresponsible to attribute such decisions to Senator Barau without proof.
Furthermore, the allegation that Senator Barau is working against the emergence of Murtala Sule Garo as Deputy Governor of Kano State is equally false and mischievous. Senator Barau has consistently demonstrated respect for democratic processes, party structures, and constitutional authority. He has never interfered in the internal affairs of the Kano State Government nor imposed personal preferences on its leadership decisions.
It is evident that Hafizu Idris and the so-called Emerging Progressives Leaders’ Forum are acting at the behest of certain undesirable elements and political opportunists—“mushroom groups” lacking legitimacy—who are sponsored by opposition interests to create disunity within the ranks of the APC and tarnish the image of credible leaders like Senator Barau.
We urge the general public and members of the APC to disregard these falsehoods and propaganda. Such tactics are not only divisive but also undermine the spirit of democracy and constructive political engagement.
Senator Barau I. Jibrin remains focused on his national responsibilities and continues to work tirelessly for the progress, unity, and development of Kano State and Nigeria at large. His track record speaks louder than the noise of politically sponsored distractions.
We call on media organizations to uphold the principles of fairness, objectivity, and verification in their reporting, and to avoid giving undue attention to unverified claims from questionable sources.
Concerned Citizens reaffirm their unwavering support for Senator Barau I. Jibrin and his leadership. We remain committed to promoting truth, unity, and progress in our great state.
Signed:
Alhaji Ibrahim Ado Abubakar
National Coordinator
Kano Concerned Citizens
(On behalf of members across the 44 Local Government Areas of Kano State)
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, APRIL 9TH 2026)



