The air in Kano is thick with apprehension as the government of Abba Kabir Yusuf gears up to arraign Dr. Umar Abdullahi Ganduje, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Governor of the state, on charges of financial misappropriation.
This looming legal showdown has sparked palpable fear and uncertainty among residents, with some contemplating leaving their homes to avoid potential clashes orchestrated by political thugs.
Last Tuesday, the ruling New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and the state government filed charges against Ganduje, his wife, and six others at the Kano State High Court.
This move comes in the wake of heightened tensions as the NNPP-led administration initiates both a commission of inquiry and legal proceedings to investigate alleged abuses of power during Ganduje’s tenure.
Support for or against the impending litigation has dominated political discourse across local radio stations and social media platforms, punctuated by cautionary tones and veiled threats.
Many residents fear that this political feud could escalate into a full-blown security crisis, given the deep-seated animosity between the opposing factions.
Yakubu Isa, a resident of Hotoro, voiced concerns about the timing of the conflict, emphasizing the need for religious principles to guide governance rather than fueling political vendettas.
Tanimu Auwalu from Rijiyallemo urged Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to prioritize governance over partisan warfare, emphasizing the importance of focusing on developmental agendas.
Hajiya Ayi Isa Dosa echoed similar sentiments, urging the governor to remain focused amidst distractions, emphasizing that tangible infrastructure development would resonate more with voters than political score-settling.
Meanwhile, Garba Kore, an APC stalwart, criticized the governor’s motives, accusing him of engaging in a vendetta against a respected former leader.
In a similar vein, Alhaji Musa Iliyasu Kwankwaso cautioned against casting stones while living in a glass house, hinting at potential repercussions for those initiating legal actions.
The Kano chapter of the APC, through Chairman Abdullahi Abbas, emphasized their commitment to the rule of law while condemning any form of witch-hunting or political victimization.
Amidst this verbal sparring, the Kano Police reassured residents of their safety, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining peace and order.
Commissioner of Police Ussaini Gumel clarified that the police were not directly involved in preparing charges against Ganduje, deferring inquiries to the state government and the Attorney General.
As tensions mount and political tempers flare, Kano braces for the legal showdown scheduled for April 17, wary of the potential ramifications of this high-stakes confrontation.
