Don’t provoke us into abandoning the path of law – Kwankwasiyya warns Kano govt

The Kwankwasiyya Movement has warned the Kano State Government against provoking it into abandoning its commitment to the rule of law. The group accused the government of intimidating and harassing critics and opposition supporters, alleging a shrinking democratic space within the state. In response to Amnesty International's report on arrests, detentions, and harassment of critics, the movement vowed to pursue legal action over alleged violations of citizens' rights.

Dr. Habibu Sale Mohammed, the movement's spokesperson, highlighted several individuals affected by the reported arrests and intimidation, including Abba Ibrahim Kofar Nasarawa, Murtala Muhammad Dawanau, Fatima Dayyabu, and others. The group particularly expressed concern over the continued detention of Aiha K Nass, who had been arrested and brought before a Sharia court under strict conditions that he could not meet.

The movement questioned the proportionality of these bail conditions, especially for someone presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The Kwankwasiyya Movement alleged that the conditions leading to K Nass' arrest and prosecution were tied to his criticism of the government. They urged the Chief Judge of Kano State and the Kano State Judicial Service Commission to review the conduct and circumstances of proceedings before the Sharia Court in Ungogo Division, seeking a review through lawful channels.

The movement affirmed it would rely on legal and constitutional avenues to challenge what it deems violations of citizens' rights, emphasizing peaceful and lawful methods.

The movement cautioned against intimidation and urged citizens, including its members and supporters, to remain peaceful and law-abiding. It called on the Kano State Government, security agencies, and relevant institutions to respect the rights to freedom of expression and association, emphasizing their commitment to adhering to the path of law.