Nigeria
Group Blames Kano Gov’s Comment for Inciting Arson, Looting
A group blames the Kano governor’s comment for inciting arson and looting during protests. Get the full story on this contentious issue.
Advocacy for Good Governance (A4GG), a non-governmental organization, has criticized Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano over remarks that have been attributed to him, which the group believes may be contributing to the wave of arson and looting currently taking place in the state.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Hashim Abubakar – the Coordinator of A4GG highlighted that the remarks made by the governor during a recent stakeholders meeting at Government House in Kano recklessly undermine police authority to uphold law and order.
Inviting the protesters to the Government House also sent a wrong signal to potential arsonists, emboldening them and ultimately leading to the violent act.
As per the statement, what was intended to be a tranquil demonstration escalated into chaos when the state governor engaged in an argument with the police commissioner and openly disrespected his power.
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At a critical juncture wherein focus should be on upholding calmness, the governor’s non-diplomatic remarks foster chaos and lawlessness, as he overlooks how precarious the situation is.
The statement emphasized that openly undermining the authority of the police commissioner in the state, despite personal grudges against them, could send a negative signal to those who may want to utilize such an opportunity for violent purposes.
According to A4GG, the governor attempted to distance himself from the current situation in the country by claiming that his critical remarks were politically driven and aimed at undermining the central government.
Blaming Governor Yusuf for the devastation of lives and assets in the violent outbreak that occurred during what was anticipated to be a peaceful demonstration, Hashim made his statement.
According to the coordinator, the Governor found solace in the support of Sanusi Lamido, amidst his conflict-ridden leadership as Emir.