Former Governor of Kano State, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has called on the Nigeria Police Force to maintain professionalism and avoid political bias, particularly in Kano State, after a controversial terror alert was issued ahead of the Tijjaniyya Sufi Order’s annual Maulud celebration.
The alert, released by the Kano State Police Command on the eve of the celebration, stirred tension among residents and attendees, including those who traveled from across Nigeria and abroad to participate in the event at Sani Abacha Stadium.
While the Maulud event proceeded successfully, Kwankwaso expressed concerns over the timing and validity of the terror threat, which he believes cast unnecessary fear on the celebration.
In his statement, Kwankwaso congratulated the Tijjaniyya Sufi Order, His Royal Highness Khalifa Muhammad Sanusi II, the Emir of Kano, and Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for their efforts in organizing the event.
However, he criticized the police for issuing a baseless terror alert, which he believes not only undermined the peaceful celebration but also harmed public confidence in the force.
Kwankwaso stated, “This conduct by the police, which has already been marked as a willing partner of the Federal Government in its habitual interference in Kano State’s affairs, further erodes its credibility.
Issuing a threat alert of this magnitude, which later turns out to be false, sets a dangerous precedent.”
He warned that such actions could lead to public complacency in the face of actual threats in the future and criticized the international implications of the incident.
“The conduct of the police leadership in Kano also leaves a bad impression of the Nigeria Police Force globally,” Kwankwaso remarked.
The senator urged the Nigeria Police Force in Kano to prioritize professionalism, integrity, and neutrality, steering clear of political interference.
He also called on the Federal Government to respect Kano’s autonomy, emphasizing the importance of maintaining clear boundaries in governance.