The Kano State Government has dismissed allegations by political figure, Alhaji Buba Galadima, accusing Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf and the Department of State Services (DSS) of suppressing opposition voices, describing the claims as false and politically motivated.
The Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, stated this during a press briefing issued on Friday in Kano.
Waiya said the allegations made during a recent interview by Galadima were “reckless, unfounded and malicious,” adding that they were aimed at undermining the integrity of the state government and creating discord among residents.
According to him, the administration will not allow misinformation or personal grievances to distort public perception or erode confidence in democratic institutions.
He noted that similar allegations surfaced shortly after Gov. Yusuf’s political realignment, stressing that Galadima’s recent comments followed his removal as Chairman of the Governing Board of Kano State Polytechnic.
The commissioner explained that the removal was based strictly on administrative considerations relating to performance and competence, not political reasons.
“It is evident that the media campaign is driven by personal grievance and loss of official privilege rather than genuine concern for democracy,” he said.
Waiya reiterated that the state government had never directed security agencies to harass or intimidate political opponents, describing such insinuations as misleading.
He maintained that the Yusuf administration remained committed to protecting fundamental rights, including freedom of expression, as guaranteed under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The commissioner, however, cautioned that freedom of expression does not extend to defamation, incitement or deliberate dissemination of false information capable of threatening public peace.
He added that security agencies, including the DSS, operate within their constitutional mandates and take actions only based on lawful procedures and credible complaints.
Waiya expressed concern over what he described as the growing trend of misinformation on social media by individuals seeking political relevance.
He said Kano State remained open to constructive criticism and democratic engagement but would not tolerate attempts to destabilise the state through false narratives.
The commissioner further stated that opposition figures continued to operate freely in the state, while civic engagement and media activities remained unhindered.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to democratic principles, rule of law and peaceful coexistence, adding that the administration would continue supporting security agencies in maintaining law and order.
Waiya urged political actors and commentators to verify information before making public statements and avoid sensational claims capable of inflaming public sentiment.
“The Kano State Government remains determined in protecting citizens’ rights while ensuring such rights are exercised responsibly within the law,” he said.