Kano gov bans protests, orders arrest of ‘student protesters’

Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has issued a ban on all forms of public demonstrations within the state, imposing stringent restrictions on gatherings intended for protests.

In a statement released by his Media and Publicity Director, Sanusi Bature, on Wednesday, the governor cited his authority as the chief security officer of the state for the decision.

“By virtue of his position, the Governor has directed the police, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) to apprehend, detain, and prosecute any individual or group partaking in demonstrations on the streets of Kano,” the statement said.

According to Bature, the governor’s action is a proactive measure aimed at preventing potential breakdowns of law and order instigated by adversaries of the state.

“We are privy to credible intelligence indicating that certain prominent figures from the opposition party in Kano have devised plans to sponsor student associations and political agitators from other northwestern states to incite chaos under the guise of advocating for the dethroned Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero.

“The State Government has explicitly outlawed protests, demonstrations, or processions of any kind, and individuals found on the streets of Kano engaging in such activities will be promptly apprehended.

“Through this declaration, we caution student groups against being manipulated by troublemakers who are resolute in fomenting disorder in Kano,” the statement added.

Yusuf urged all citizens of the state to carry on with their normal activities as the state retains its tranquility.

He added that the State Government will persist in vigilant oversight of the situation involving the emirate tussle to promptly address any individuals or factions trying to undermine the relative peace that state presently enjoys.