The Kano State Government has rejected allegations by Buba Galadima accusing Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Kano of suppressing opposition voices.
In a press briefing journalists, Friday in Kano, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, described the claims as “false, malicious and politically contrived,” insisting that the administration has not directed any security agency to harass or intimidate political opponents.
Galadima, an ally of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, in a recent interview, had alleged that dissenting voices in Kano were being targeted, prompting a swift response from the state government.
The government said the allegations were part of a pattern of “baseless claims” that surfaced after Governor Yusuf’s recent political realignment, and suggested that Galadima’s remarks were influenced by personal grievances.
According to the statement, Galadima’s removal as Chairman of the Board of Kano State Polytechnic was based strictly on administrative considerations relating to performance and competence, not political vendetta.
“It is evident that his media outburst is driven by personal grievance and loss of official privilege rather than genuine concern for democracy,” the commissioner said.
The state government maintained that it remains committed to upholding fundamental rights, including freedom of expression, as guaranteed under the Constitution.
However, it stressed that freedom of speech does not extend to defamation, incitement or the deliberate spread of false information capable of disrupting public peace.
“No responsible government will allow individuals to weaponise social media and public platforms to tarnish reputations or incite unnecessary tension,” the statement read.
The government further clarified that security agencies, including the DSS, operate within their constitutional mandates and are not subject to political control by the state government.
“Any action taken by security agencies is based on credible complaints and lawful procedures, not political directives,” it added.
The administration expressed concern over what it described as a growing trend of misinformation by individuals seeking political relevance.
While reiterating that Kano remains open to constructive criticism and democratic engagement, the government warned against what it called deliberate attempts to destabilise the state through false narratives and propaganda.
It also asserted that opposition figures continue to operate freely in Kano and that civic engagement and media activities are ongoing without hindrance.
Governor Yusuf’s leadership, the statement said, is anchored on inclusivity, accountability and respect for the rule of law, adding that the administration will continue to support security agencies in maintaining law and order.
The government called on political actors and commentators to verify facts and avoid sensational claims capable of undermining public trust in democratic institutions.
