INSECURITY: Coalition demands suspension of political rallies over rising thuggery in Kano
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Kano Civil Society Alliance for Peaceful Politics has called for the immediate suspension of all political rallies in Kano State.
The coalition warned that the suspension is crucial to prevent bloodshed and safeguard lives and property as political activities in the state gather momentum.
In a press statement, the Convener of the coalition, Ambassador Abdullahi D. Mohammed, expressed deep concern over the dramatic rise in political violence and the activities of armed youth gangs, locally known as Yan’daba. Mohammed blamed the surge directly on politicians who allegedly fund and weaponize these violent groups for political leverage.
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The coalition painted a grim picture of the security situation in the state, noting that clashes between rival gangs have become increasingly frequent. Armed thugs now openly pursue and attack their targets in public spaces while chanting partisan slogans.
Alarmingly, this resurgence of violence comes despite a major state government initiative in 2025, which granted amnesty and rehabilitation opportunities to over 1,300 repentant thugs. The coalition lamented that the gesture has failed to deter the perpetrators, leaving Kano’s democratic stability under severe threat.
”The astronomical rise in cases of politically related violence, Yan’daba, and political thuggery in Kano is alarming. We must remember that Kano is greater than any individual or institution.”
Drawing parallels to the Sallah Durbar suspension
To avert a total breakdown of law and order, the alliance urged authorities to take the same decisive action used in the past to maintain peace. They pointed out that just as the government previously suspended the historic Sallah Durbar festival to prevent clashes, a similar restriction must now be placed on political rallies until a comprehensive security framework is established.
The coalition recommended an immediate halt to all public political rallies across Kano State until security agencies can guarantee public safety.
It also recommended for political parties and actors to adopt town hall meetings in smaller, controlled venues instead of massive outdoor rallies.
The coalition demanded for a stronger law enforcement action against the political patrons who fund, arm, and direct violent youth groups.
