•Emir Condemns Protesters’ Behaviour
By Abdullahi Yusuf
Angry supporters of the 15th Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, have destroyed many banners and posters of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf displayed in parts of the Kano metropolis as part of the ongoing campaigns for the 2027 general elections.
The supporters whom included youths and women were protesting against the recent restriction of all forms of Durbar processions and horse-riding activities within the Kano metropolis announced by the State Government,until further notice.
They rampaged through some streets of the ancient city including State Road and Emir’s Palace road tearing and pulling down the structures which carried the images of the Governor.
The protesters also chanted anti-government slogans as they paraded through the streets to ventilate their anger against the restriction order.
Reacting to the incident, the Emir expressed displeasure at the protesters’ outrage.
His Chief Councillor, Alhaji Aminu Babba Dan’agundi, Sarkin Dawaki Babba, who addressed journalists, said the Emir had already directed that the damaged banners be repaired.
According to Babba, the Emir stressed that the traditional institution must remain above partisan politics, saying, “We are fathers of the people, not politicians.”
He, therefore, appealed to the Emir’s supporters and well-wishers to avoid bringing partisan political activities into the affairs of the traditional institution.
The Sarkin Dawaki Babba also conveyed the Emir’s appreciation to the thousands of his supporters,who demonstrated their love and loyalty by complying with the government’s directive and accompanying the Emir on foot to his residence at the Nassarawa Palace, despite the heavy rainfall and strong winds.
He said the Emir had no adequate words to express his gratitude to the people for their show of love, patience and solidarity, adding that His Highness prayed that Almighty Allah would reward them abundantly.
The Emir also urged his supporters to continue with prayers, as it is customary, for peace, stability and progress in Kano State and Nigeria, as well as abundant blessings and prosperity for the people.
Meanwhile,the State Government has urged all traditional rulers, religious and community leaders, political actors and members of the public to exercise restraint in their statements and actions.
In a statement signed by Aminu Hussaini Esq.,Special Adviser to the State Governor on Justice/Constitutional Matters, the government also urged them to esure that their statements and actions do not encourage unlawful disobedience, confrontation or any disturbance of public peace.
“The attention of the Office of the Special Adviser to the Executive Governor on Justice and Constitutional Matters has been drawn to a video circulating on social media in which the Sarkin Dawaki Babba expressed views concerning the recent restrictions on Durbar activities and offered his interpretation of the subsisting judicial proceedings on the Kano Emirship.
“The Office considers it important to clarify that while every citizen is entitled to express opinions on matters of public interest, the interpretation, clarification and enforcement of court orders are matters for the courts.
“An individual’s interpretation of a subsisting judicial order cannot, by itself, confer a legal authority to disregard a lawful directive issued by a competent public authority.
“Where any person considers a Government directive to be inconsistent with a court order, the appropriate course is to seek judicial clarification or other appropriate legal relief, rather than declare an intention to disregard the directive or encourage others to do so.
“Kano State Government will not permit any individual or group to turn a legitimate dispute into a challenge to public order.
“Any attempt to mobilise persons to defy lawful directives, obstruct lawful authority or disturb the peace will be dealt with promptly, firmly and strictly in accordance with the law,” the Special Adviser warned.