The 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and former two-term governor of Kano State, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, has cautioned the Federal Government against interference in the affairs of Kano State. He also criticized the Nigeria Police Force for what he described as a lack of professionalism and undue partisanship.
Kwankwaso’s remarks came in response to a recent terror alert issued by the Kano State Police Command on the eve of the National Tijjaniyya Sufi Order Maulud celebration, which drew participants from across Nigeria and beyond.
In a statement posted on his verified Facebook page, Kwankwaso condemned the alert, describing it as unfounded and a threat to public trust in the police.
“I am concerned by a ‘terror alert’ from the Kano State Police Command on the eve of the event. This alert not only jeopardized the success of the gathering but also created palpable fear among the people of Kano and visitors from other countries and parts of Nigeria,” he said.
He argued that the false alarm undermined the credibility of the police and could lead to complacency during genuine security threats in the future.
“Issuing a threat alert of this magnitude, which later turns out to be false, sets a dangerous precedent. It puts the integrity of the police in doubt and creates a bad impression of the Nigeria Police Force globally,” Kwankwaso added.
Calls for Professionalism
Kwankwaso urged the Kano State Police Command to maintain professionalism and refrain from actions that could be interpreted as partisan.
“The conduct of the police in Kano leaves a bad impression. I urge the Police Force to avoid being identified as deeply partisan in the affairs of Kano State or any part of the country,” he said.
He also warned the Federal Government to steer clear of Kano State’s internal matters, stating that such interference disrupts governance and creates unnecessary tension.
“For the umpteenth time, I urge the Federal Government to avoid unpleasant situations by refraining from meddling in matters that are strictly under the jurisdiction of the good people of Kano State and its government,” Kwankwaso emphasized.
Background of the Alert
The police alert, which advised residents to avoid large gatherings, was issued ahead of the Maulud celebration of Sheikh Ibrahim Inyass, an event of international significance for the Tijjaniyya Sufi Order. The Kano State Government swiftly rejected the alert, labeling it a ploy to disrupt the celebration.
Despite the alert, the event proceeded as planned, with attendees from across Nigeria and other countries.
This incident has sparked debate about the role of security agencies in state affairs and the balance between public safety and perceived interference by federal institutions in local governance.
