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.
At a press briefing in Kano on Friday, Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waya, described the claims as “false, malicious and politically motivated”, stressing that the administration has not directed any security agency to harass or intimidate political opponents.
Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso's aide Galadima recently alleged in an interview 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 emerged following Governor Yusuf's recent political realignment, and suggested that Galadima's comments were influenced by personal grievances.
According to the statement, Galadima's removal from the post of Chairman of the Board of Kano State Polytechnic was based solely on administrative considerations related to performance and capacity and not on political vendetta.
The commissioner said, “It is clear that their media outrage is motivated by personal grievance and loss of official privilege rather than genuine concern for democracy.”
The state government said it is committed to upholding fundamental rights, including freedom of expression, guaranteed under the Constitution.
However, it stressed that freedom of expression does not extend to defamation, incitement or the deliberate dissemination of false information capable of disrupting public peace.
“No responsible government will allow individuals to weaponize social media and public platforms to tarnish reputations or incite unnecessary tension,” the statement said.
The government further clarified that security agencies, including the DSS, operate under their constitutional mandates and are not subject to the political control of the state government.
It added, “Any action taken by security agencies is based on credible complaints and legitimate processes, and not on political directives.”
The Administration expressed concern over the growing trend of misinformation by individuals seeking political relevance.
Reiterating that Kano is open to constructive criticism and democratic engagement, the government warned against deliberate efforts to destabilize the state through false narratives and propaganda.
It also claimed that opposition figures were operating freely in Kano and that civic engagement and media activities were continuing unhindered.
The statement said Governor Yusuf's leadership is based on inclusiveness, 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 that could undermine public confidence in democratic institutions.
