The Presidency has refuted allegations made by Rabiu Kwankwaso, the National Leader of the New Nigeria People Party (NNPP), regarding the Federal Government’s purported plans to declare a state of emergency in Kano State.
Kwankwaso, while speaking at the flag-off ceremony for the construction of 82 kilometers of rural road networks in Madobi, his hometown, accused the federal government of jeopardizing Kano's security by retaining heavy security personnel guarding the deposed Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero.
He also stated that the people of Kano would oppose any attempts to undermine the state's constituted authority.
In response, presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga informed The Nation that Kwankwanso’s assertions were baseless.
He stated, “There is no truth in it. It is a mere rumor. The Federal Government cannot declare a state of emergency in any state without the involvement of the National Assembly.
There is no such plan. It is a mere rumor. The National Assembly is currently in recess. No president can unilaterally declare a state of emergency in any state.”
Additionally, the Kano state commissioner of police, Ussain Gumel, informed The Nation that his officers are obligated to protect both emirs and denied allegations of bias during the emirate crisis.
He said, “We have received approximately five court orders and have forwarded them to the Attorney General and Minister of Justice. We are awaiting his response and directives. While waiting for the outcome in court or directives from the AGF, we must protect the contending emirs. I encourage the public to demonstrate patience and calm while we await the outcome from the relevant authorities.”