Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has taken decisive action in response to the violence and destruction that marred the #EndBadGovernance protest in the state.
On Monday, the governor inaugurated a 14-member Judicial Commission of Inquiry (JCI) tasked with investigating the unrest, identifying its sponsors, and bringing the perpetrators to justice.
The commission, led by retired Justice Lawan Wada Mahmoud, has been mandated to probe the killings, looting, and destruction of public and private properties that occurred during the protest.
The governor, while inaugurating the panel at the Government House, expressed deep concern over the economic sabotage inflicted by the hoodlums who hijacked the peaceful protest.
In a statement released by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, Yusuf emphasized the importance of the commission’s work, urging its members to carry out their duties “without fear or favor.”
“The setting up of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry is in fulfillment of the pledge made during the inspection of the destroyed facilities,” Governor Yusuf stated.
“We want the panel to dig deeper into the remote and immediate causes of the senseless destruction, as well as identify the masterminds so that the law of the land can take its full course.”
The governor also directed the commission to investigate the missing documents from the high court complex, including criminal files and looted exhibits. He emphasized that no individual, regardless of their status or position, should be exempted from questioning.
“Invite anyone found wanting to answer questions, whether in Kano or anywhere in the country, regardless of status or position in Nigeria,” the governor instructed the commission.
The commission’s terms of reference include establishing the causes of the unrest that erupted in the first week of August 2024, identifying the individuals or groups responsible for the violence, and making recommendations to prevent future occurrences.
The panel is also tasked with assessing the extent of damage to properties, loss of lives, and the value of looted items.
“It is gratifying to know that in carrying out its functions, the commission is to 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,” the governor added.
Retired Justice Lawan Wada Mahmoud expressed gratitude on behalf of the commission members for the trust placed in them by the Kano State government. He assured that the commission would perform its duties diligently.
The inauguration ceremony concluded with a reaffirmation of the government’s commitment to ensuring justice and preventing future unrest in Kano State.
