Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has taken swift action in response to the violence and destruction that disrupted the #EndBadGovernance protest in the state.
On Monday, the governor inaugurated a 14-member Judicial Commission of Inquiry (JCI) to investigate the unrest, identify those responsible, and ensure they are brought to justice.
The commission, chaired by retired Justice Lawan Wada Mahmoud, has been tasked with probing the killings, looting, and destruction of both public and private property during the protest.
During the inauguration at the Government House, Governor Yusuf expressed grave concern over the economic damage caused by the criminals who hijacked the peaceful demonstration.
In a statement released by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, Yusuf stressed the importance of the commission’s mission, urging its members to conduct their investigation “without fear or favor.”
“The establishment of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry fulfills the promise made during the inspection of the destroyed facilities,” Governor Yusuf stated. “We expect the panel to thoroughly examine the underlying causes of this senseless destruction and identify the masterminds so that justice can be served.”
The governor also instructed the commission to investigate the disappearance of documents from the high court complex, including criminal files and stolen exhibits, emphasizing that no one, regardless of status or position, should be exempt from questioning.
“Summon anyone implicated, whether in Kano or elsewhere in the country, irrespective of their rank or position in Nigeria,” the governor directed.
The commission’s mandate includes determining the causes of the unrest in early August 2024, identifying those responsible for the violence, and recommending measures to prevent future incidents.
Additionally, the panel will assess the extent of the damage to property, loss of life, and the value of stolen items.
Governor Yusuf noted that the commission’s work will be guided by the provisions of Section 8 of the Kano State Commission of Inquiry Law, Cap 36, Laws of Kano State of Nigeria, 2018.
Retired Justice Lawan Wada Mahmoud, speaking on behalf of the commission members, expressed gratitude for the trust placed in them by the Kano State government and assured that they would carry out their duties with diligence.
“We pledge to execute this assignment to the best of our abilities, without fear or favor, and to justify the confidence placed in us by the state government,” Justice Mahmoud stated.
The commission members include Barrister Tajuddeen Funsho, Alhaji Sani Isa Asia, Prof. Musa Muhammad Borodo, Barrister Sagir Suleiman Gezawa, ACP Munir Madugu, Shehu Abdullahi, Hajiya Gambo Abdullahi, Ambassador Ibrahim Waiya, Dr. Saidu Ahmad Dukawa, Rev. Murtala Mati Dangora, Barrister MB. Danazumi, Barrister Haruna Musa Muhammad, and Barrister Salisu Marmara, who will serve as the Secretary of the Commission.
The inauguration ceremony concluded with a reaffirmation of the government’s dedication to ensuring justice and preventing further unrest in Kano State.