Kano

Senator representing Kano Central, Rufai Sani Hanga, has been dragged before an Upper Sharia Court over an alleged unpaid sum of N124,800,070 owed to political associates. The civil suit, filed by Isa Ado Medoya and other members of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), claims the amount was incurred during the senator’s electioneering campaign for services rendered. When the case came up for hearing before Sharia Judge Muhammad Sani, counsel to the plaintiffs, Abbas Mandawari, outlined the basis of the claim, stating that the funds represent payment for agreed campaign assignments executed by his clients. Mandawari presented documents and samples to demonstrate the nature of the work carried out, adding that further consultations were required to properly organise additional materials. He subsequently requested more time for verification. Read Also: Meet DIGs Likely to Retire Following Disu’s Emergence as Acting IGP Counsel to the defendant opposed the application, arguing that the plaintiffs were unprepared to proceed with substantive arguments and urging the court to dismiss the suit on grounds of lack of diligent prosecution. However, the court declined the request for dismissal, ruling that the plaintiffs be granted additional time to consolidate their filings. The judge emphasised the need to allow both parties adequate opportunity to fully present their cases. The matter was adjourned to April 21, 2026, for the continuation of proceedings, with the plaintiffs expected to submit complete documentation, after which the defence will respond formally. Meanwhile, the case unfolds amid ongoing political realignments in Kano State. Senator Hanga, the only NNPP senator in the National Assembly and Deputy Minority Whip, has remained aligned with Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso despite recent defections within the party. The senator has reportedly described recent political shifts, including the defection of Abba Kabir Yusuf, as a betrayal, reiterating his commitment to remain within his political bloc. (People’s Pen)

By Olufunmi Alhaji Kabiru Yusuf-Nadabo, a retired Assistant Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), has raised concerns over the recklessness of commercial tricycle operators, popularly known as Keke Napep, along major highways in Kano State. Yusuf-Nadabo, said he observed that tricycle operators have extended their operations beyond the city centre to major highways, contrary to established traffic regulations. Speaking in an exclusive interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Kano, the retired corps marshal, recalled that the state government had in 2013 ban commercial motorcycles and introduced tricycles as an alternative means of transportation. “Stakeholders reached a gentleman’s agreement restricting tricycle operations within designated urban routes. On no account, therefore, were tricycles expected to ply major highways like other vehicles,”he said. Read Also: IGP Egbetokun Bows Out After Presidential Order Emir Aminu Ado Bayero To Lead National Ramadan Feeding Committee Kano Journalist Weighs Legal Action Over Alleged Insult by Govt Aide Yusuf-Nadabo urged security agencies like, FRSC, Police Force, and Kano Road Traffic Agency to collaborate to curb growing menace. He recalled that safety, security and safety go hand in hand, but much attention is being given to security, while safety is often neglected, forgetting that safety must come first. The ex-frsc boss urged Kano state government to urgently convene a stakeholders’ forum to reassess and enforce operational limits for tricycle operators in order to safeguard lives and property. He said, “Kano is unique in having eight major highways directly linking the city centre to other parts of the country, with operational limits for each route. “Tricycles operating on highway mm poses serious traffic and safety risks. The same situation is observed on Wudil road, where tricyclist now go beyond Wudil to Gaya. “To address traffic challenges, there is need for meetings of traditional rulers, police, civil defence, transport unions, media, among others to review traffic situations and collectively took decisions,” he said. He raised alarm that the crash statistics which involve tricycles on highways is alarming and thereby called for urgent intervention.

A controversy surrounding an alleged altercation between a Kano State government aide and a journalist during the Argungu Motor Rally has taken a new turn, with the journalist indicating that legal action may follow if no formal apology or communication is issued. The incident reportedly occurred at the Race Course in Kano metropolis during the Argungu Motor Rally, an event held as part of activities marking the 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival. The government official involved, Auwal Sani Rogo, a Senior Special Reporter with the Kano State Government, was alleged to have engaged in a verbal exchange with Abdulbaki Ali Ahmed Sharifai, who was covering the event in his professional capacity. Read Also: Emir Aminu Ado Bayero To Lead National Ramadan Feeding Committee Eyewitnesses said the incident occurred shortly after Sharifai and other journalists conducted an interview at the venue. The altercation reportedly took place in the presence of senior officials, including Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs; Hajiya Aisha Lawan Saji Rano, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism; and Alhaji Abba El-Mustapha, Chairman of the Kano State Censorship Board. Following the incident, Sharifai proceeded to the Divisional Police Office in Bompai, headquarters of the Kano State Police Command, where he lodged a formal complaint over alleged insult, harassment, and intimidation while carrying out his lawful duties. However, the government aide was said to have declined a police invitation, allegedly remaining within the Kano State Government House. In an effort to resolve the issue amicably, Commissioner Waiya reportedly invited the journalist for dialogue and assured him of intervention, including facilitating an apology from Rogo. As of the time of filing this report, no official apology or formal communication has been issued by Rogo, the Kano State Government, or the Office of Special Advisers to the Executive Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf. Sources close to Sharifai indicated that legal action remains a possible option if the matter is not formally addressed. Sharifai maintains that he was performing his lawful professional duties at the time of the alleged incident and deserves institutional response and redress. The development has generated conversations within media circles regarding respect for journalists and professionalism at public events. As of press time, neither Rogo nor the Kano State Government has released an official public statement on the matter.

The Kano State Government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening the state’s security architecture through improved monitoring of vehicular movement into the state. This was contained in a statement signed by Adamu Abdullahi, Director of Public Enlightenment, and Hon. Mustapha Hamisu, Media Aide to the Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Housing Development, Kano State. The Commissioner for Housing Development, Arc. Ibrahim Yakubu Adamu, made the disclosure during the official handover of seven project sites for the construction of toll gates across major entry routes into the Kano metropolis. Arc. Adamu explained that the decision to mount toll gates on all major roads leading into the state was strategic, aimed at enhancing both the security framework and the socio-economic development of Kano State. Read Also: Ganduje, Kuku Lead Nigeria’s Airports Into a New Era Pantami Urges Northern Muslims to Invest in Media, Warns of Communication Deficit KACCIMA Launches Ramadan Fair, Urges Fair Pricing and Business Integrity He emphasized that effective monitoring at key entry points would help regulate vehicular movement, strengthen internal security, and contribute to improved governance outcomes. The Commissioner further called on contractors handling the projects to adhere strictly to specifications and ensure timely completion within the stipulated timeframe. The handover ceremony, which took place across the seven designated project sites, was witnessed by the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Marwan Ahmed, and the Commissioner for Public Procurement, Dr. Nura Ma’aji. A major highlight of the exercise was the signing of handover documents between the contractors, representatives of the Ministry of Housing Development, and the project consultant. The toll gates are to be constructed along key access routes, including Daura Road, Katsina Road, Gwarzo Road, Zaria Road, Maiduguri Road, Hadejia Road, and Sa’adatu Rimi Road. The initiative is expected to enhance security surveillance while also generating additional revenue to support infrastructural development across the state.

The Kano Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KACCIMA) has formally flagged off the 2026 Ramadan Fair in Kano, with stakeholders emphasizing ethical trade, affordability, and community support during the holy month. This was contained in a statement signed by the Director General of KACCIMA, Tijjani Abdullahi Sarki, following the opening ceremony held on Sunday at the Trade Fair Complex. The event, described as colourful and spiritually uplifting, attracted government officials, traditional rulers, religious scholars, captains of industry, and members of the business community. Organized in collaboration with the Kano State Government through the Ministry of Commerce and Investment and the Kano Markets Chairman Forum Association (KAMCHAFA), the fair is aimed at easing economic pressure on citizens by providing essential commodities at affordable prices while strengthening Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Read Also: Pantami Urges Northern Muslims to Invest in Media, Warns of Communication Deficit Niger bans filming, sharing images of aid recipients during Ramadan Emir Aminu Ado Bayero To Lead National Ramadan Feeding Committee Representing Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, the Commissioner for Commerce and Investment, Goni Shehu Wada Sagagi, described the initiative as “a timely and deeply humane intervention” in view of current economic challenges. He noted that the fair reflects government’s commitment to protecting consumers and supporting traders, particularly during Ramadan, a period defined by compassion, sacrifice, and social solidarity. “The true essence of Ramadan is not only in fasting but in demonstrating kindness, honesty, and social responsibility. Let our markets reflect these noble values,” he said. In his remarks, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, commended the President of KACCIMA, Ambassador Usman Hassan Darma, for repositioning the Chamber and restoring public confidence through impactful initiatives. He urged market leaders to promote transparency, discipline, and stable business practices to sustain economic growth. Also speaking, the Danmalikin Kano and District Head of Rimingado, Dr. Auwalu Mudi Yakasai, who represented the Emir of Kano, called on traders to uphold integrity and fairness, noting that honest wealth attracts blessings while deceit diminishes value. Delivering a religious lecture, Sheikh Kamalu Inuwa, Chief Imam of Hidaya Friday Mosque, admonished traders to avoid cheating, hoarding, and fraudulent practices. He emphasized that Islam encourages lawful trade while strictly forbidding exploitation and injustice. He reminded participants that Ramadan is a period of purification not only of the body but also of wealth urging them to conduct business in line with Islamic teachings. In his welcome address, KACCIMA President, Ambassador Usman Hassan Darma, reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to ethical commerce, consumer protection, and enterprise development. The 2026 Ramadan Fair is expected to run throughout the Ramadan period, offering food items, household goods, and locally made products at competitive prices.

The Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, on Thursday convened a strategic engagement with civil society organisations to deliberate on governance issues and enhance collaboration for sustainable development in the state. Speaking during the meeting, Waiya briefed participants on key initiatives being implemented under the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, highlighting the vital role civil society groups play in governance, policy formulation, and public accountability. The commissioner reiterated the government’s commitment to inclusive governance, noting that civil society actors remain indispensable partners in promoting transparency and driving development across Kano State. Read Also: Kano APC: Yilwatda Reiterates 60/40 Sharing, Applauds Party Unity He described civil society organisations as a critical constituency, stressing the need to deepen partnerships, sustain open communication, and foster stronger cooperation between government institutions and non-state actors. Participants at the meeting commended the initiative, describing the session as interactive and forward-looking, as stakeholders exchanged ideas on policy priorities and strategies aimed at advancing development in the state. The engagement ended with a renewed commitment from both the government and civil society groups to strengthen collaboration in promoting transparency, accountability, and people-oriented development initiatives in Kano State, the commissioner reiterated.

A dawn fire outbreak has destroyed no fewer than 50 shops at the Fatima Simra Multi-Purpose Market in the Dakata area of Kano State. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Friday, has raised fresh concerns among traders, particularly coming days after a similar disaster at Singer Market. The Chairman of the market’s fire committee, Dauda Haruna Chula, confirmed the incident, stating that the inferno started at about 5:00  a.m. on Friday. He explained that the affected shops were mainly small-scale businesses involved in oil production, as well as recycling of plastics and nylon. According to him, the fire was still raging as at the time of filing this report. “From the preliminary assessment, about 50 shops have already been destroyed and the fire is still ongoing. We are still expecting personnel of the Kano State Fire Service,” he said. Read Also: Emir Aminu Ado Bayero To Lead National Ramadan Feeding Committee Niger bans filming, sharing images of aid recipients during Ramadan Fresh Fire Outbreak Hits Singa Market Chula noted that efforts had been made to alert the fire service and other relevant agencies, adding that they had confirmed awareness of the incident. “We did all we could to notify them about the situation. I can hear the sound of their vehicle approaching,” he added. As of the time of this report, the extent of damage and possible casualties had yet to be ascertained. Traders at the scene, however, raised concerns over what they described as a delayed response by emergency services. The incident comes barely one week after a major fire outbreak affected over 1,000 traders at the Singer Market, also in Kano.  

The Kano Patriotic Coalition of Civil Society Organisations Forum (KPCF) has expressed deep sympathy to traders affected by the recent fire outbreak at Singer Market in Kano, describing the incident as tragic and devastating to livelihoods. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the coalition, comprising over 300 civil society organisations, extended solidarity to victims and acknowledged the scale of losses suffered by traders and their families. KPCF commended Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for what it described as exemplary leadership, particularly his swift visit to the scene and engagement with victims and stakeholders. The forum also lauded the Federal Government for approving a ₦5 billion intervention fund to support affected traders. Read Also: Nigeria Commences Ramadan As Sultanate Announces Moon Sighting Similarly, it applauded governors under the platform of the All Progressives Congress Progressive Governors’ Forum for their collective donation of ₦3 billion to cushion the impact of the disaster. According to the statement, these interventions reflect a strong sense of national solidarity and commitment to economic recovery. KPCF further acknowledged the efforts of emergency responders, including the Kano State Fire Service and the Federal Fire Service, praising their professionalism and timely intervention, which helped contain the inferno and prevent further destruction. However, the coalition urged the Kano State Government to establish an independent and credible committee to oversee the distribution of relief funds, stressing the need for transparency, fairness, and accountability. It also recommended improved safety measures across markets in the state, including the creation of accessible emergency routes, provision of reliable water supply, and investment in modern firefighting infrastructure. The forum reiterated its commitment to promoting accountability, disaster preparedness, and the protection of livelihoods through sustained engagement with relevant stakeholders.