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    Kano Gov Promises to Join Protesters, Subject to Conditions

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    Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has declared his support for the nationwide protest scheduled to commence on August 1, 2024, while outlining specific conditions for his participation.

    In a statement following a stakeholders’ meeting at the Government House on Wednesday, Governor Yusuf affirmed the right of Nigerians to protest but stressed the importance of maintaining peace.

    He pledged to personally greet demonstrators at the Government House on Thursday if they adhere to peaceful conduct.

    “Protest is a democratic right, and I fully support it. However, I urge protesters to exercise caution as there are concerns that some criminal elements might try to hijack the demonstration. If the protest remains peaceful, I will welcome you and, if you wish, join you,” Yusuf stated.

    Governor Yusuf’s endorsement of the protest coincides with mounting criticisms of security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force.

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    The protests, organized in response to governance issues and rising living costs, have garnered significant public interest and concern.

    After the call for protests began to gain ground, the Federal Government, governors and the security establishment have been trying to dissuade organisers from going ahead with the protest.

    On Wednesday, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) held a meeting in Abuja, starting Wednesday night and ending early Thursday. Meanwhile, security concerns surrounding the protests have prompted travel advisories from the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada

    The governor expressed frustration over what he described as insubordination and failure by the police to follow state directives.

    “It’s perplexing why security agencies, especially the police, do not adhere to our orders. They often claim to have received instructions from ‘above.’

    “I am the chief security officer of the state, and if there are issues with that, the solution is to amend the Nigerian constitution,” Yusuf said.

    Governor Yusuf raised concerns about potential attempts by unnamed politicians to exploit the protest for disruptive purposes.

    He revealed that his administration had detected plans by some politicians to incite violence and vandalism under the guise of the protest.

    “We are prepared to engage in peaceful dialogue with protesters at the Government House. I am committed to presenting our concerns to President Tinubu,” Yusuf said.

    He urged the federal government to review fuel and electricity prices, open borders for goods importation, and reduce the cost of essential commodities.

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    Yusuf announced plans for a price control office to stabilize and standardize prices of goods in the state. Additionally, his administration has reinstated Public Suggestion Boxes to gather direct feedback from residents.

    “We are dedicated to improving the lives of ordinary citizens and ensuring that peace and stability are maintained in Kano,” the governor concluded.

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