Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former Kano State Governor and leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), has cautioned the Federal Government against interfering in Kano State’s internal matters.
Kwankwaso’s warning follows a contentious “terror alert” issued by the Kano State Police Command ahead of the annual Maulud celebration in honor of Sheikh Ibrahim Inyass, the spiritual leader of the Tijjaniyya Sufi Order.
In a statement shared on his official X handle, Kwankwaso congratulated the Tijjaniyya Sufi Order on the successful event held at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano. He also commended Khalifa Muhammad Sanusi II, the Emir of Kano, and Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for organizing the celebration.
Despite the event’s success, Kwankwaso criticized the police for the timing and nature of the terror alert, calling it reckless and unprofessional. “This alert not only jeopardized the success of the gathering but also put the lives of the people of Kano and attendees from other countries at risk by creating palpable fear,” he stated.
Kwankwaso alleged that the police alert was part of the Federal Government’s ongoing interference in Kano’s affairs, accusing the police of complicity. He warned that issuing baseless alerts could erode public trust in genuine warnings, creating a dangerous precedent.
“The conduct of the police leadership in Kano also tarnishes the global reputation of the Nigeria Police Force,” Kwankwaso added, calling for improved professionalism and neutrality within the force.
He urged the Federal Government to respect Kano State’s jurisdiction and refrain from actions that could escalate tensions. “For the umpteenth time, I urge the Federal Government to avoid dragging itself into unpleasant situations by further meddling in affairs strictly under the jurisdiction of Kano State,” Kwankwaso concluded.