Abba Kabir Yusuf cracks down on illicit substances, revokes land titles of drug dens, and deploys task force to dismantle criminal networks
Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, on Wednesday declared a state of emergency on drug abuse and signed an Executive Order banning illicit substance trafficking, unregistered pharmaceuticals, and nighttime movements in identified hotspots across the state.
The move, described as a “decisive step” toward restoring public safety, comes amid growing concern over the devastating grip of substance abuse on the state’s youth and its role in fuelling violent crime.
‘One of the Greatest Threats to Public Peace’
Signing the Public Safety Emergency on Substance Abuse Executive Order at the Government House, Kano, Governor Yusuf sounded the alarm:
“Drug abuse is one of the greatest threats to security and public peace in this state. It fuels violent crime, destroys families, weakens the economy and undermines social stability.”
He expressed deep concern over the rising number of young people caught in the web of addiction, stressing the need for urgent, coordinated action.
Key Provisions of the Emergency Order
Under the new measures:
· Sale of illicit drugs and unregistered pharmaceutical products without valid prescriptions is now prohibited across the state
· Movement restrictions enforced daily from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 a.m. in identified drug abuse hotspots
· Security agencies empowered to stop, search, arrest and prosecute violators
· Certificates of Occupancy of properties used for drug trafficking will be revoked
· The declaration is backed by Section 97A of the Kano State Penal Code Law and Cap 89 of 1991
Anti-Substance Abuse Task Force Deployed
Following the declaration, the governor inaugurated an Anti-Substance Abuse Task Force to implement the emergency measures.
The committee’s mandate includes:
· Identifying, mapping and dismantling drug dens and hideouts of criminal gangs (locally known as Daba)
· Arresting and prosecuting gang leaders, members, sponsors and financiers
· Coordinating intelligence gathering, enforcement operations, public enlightenment campaigns and rehabilitation programmes
Governor Yusuf assured the task force of full government support, including adequate funding, operational vehicles, office accommodation, logistics and security – while guaranteeing its operational independence.
‘No Compromise’ – Task Force Chairman Vows
Speaking after his inauguration, the task force Chairman, Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rimingado, thanked the governor for the confidence reposed in the committee and pledged to discharge duties with integrity and professionalism.
“We understand the enormity of this responsibility and will work closely with security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, educational institutions and community leaders to combat drug abuse and promote lasting peace across Kano State,” Rimingado said.
Multi-Agency Task Force
The committee comprises representatives of:
· Nigeria Police Force
· Department of State Services (DSS)
· National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA)
· Nigeria Customs Service
· Nigeria Immigration Service
· Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)
· Traditional institutions
· Religious organisations
· Civil society groups
· Business community
