Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf has issued a stern warning against any form of violence during the upcoming protests being planned to express dissatisfaction over the hardship in the country.
Addressing an assembly of business leaders, traditional rulers, and religious figures at the Government House on Wednesday in Kano, Governor Yusuf stressed the importance of maintaining peace and order.
“Protests will not take us anywhere. I urge those who wish to exercise their right to protest to refrain from engaging in any behavior that could be exploited by agents of destruction,” Yusuf stated emphatically.
The governor revealed that credible intelligence shows that certain disgruntled individuals were recruiting thugs to incite trouble in the state.
“I assure you that the government will not tolerate such actions. Instead, I extend an invitation to those who wish to demonstrate to come to the Government House, where I will be happy to listen to their grievances and engage in constructive dialogue.”
Governor Yusuf highlighted the state government’s efforts towards enhancing the well-being of its citizens, emphasising Kano’s unity in pursuing positive change.
“We are united in our quest for positive change that will yield the desired objectives of peace, progress, and political stability. However, I must emphasise that social media has had a negative impact by allowing the abuse of leaders, which will not help us achieve our goals,” Governor Yusuf said.
He called for an end to social media abuse, noting that it hampers progress.
The Kano State governor also outlined the administration’s initiatives to address pressing issues like hunger and poverty.
“Our administration is currently sponsoring over 1,000 students pursuing various courses in foreign countries. We are also actively working to empower women and combat poverty in the state through a monthly programme, which has already benefited over 5,000 women with a monthly stipend of N50,000, totaling over N260 million,” Governor Yusuf said.
Further, he said the state government was committed to improving access to clean drinking water in all metropolitan areas and has recently procured N1 billion worth of fertilizer, which has been distributed free to rural communities to boost food production and support agricultural development.
Governor Yusuf concluded with a firm warning against any form of violence or destructive behavior during the protests.
“The destruction of government property and looting of shops will not be tolerated,” he vowed.