By Usman Usman Garba
More than 200 civil society organisations across Nigeria have reportedly agreed to honour the Kano State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, for his handling of tensions surrounding the Kano Emirate dispute.
The planned recognition was disclosed by Barrister Nabila Abba Isma’eel, a member of one of the organisations, who said the initiative was intended to recognise the police commissioner’s efforts to ease tensions and promote public confidence.
According to Isma’eel, Bakori demonstrated professionalism and strategic security management through engagements with key traditional figures associated with the emirate dispute.
She cited his visits to the palace of the 15th Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero; the Sarkin Dawaki Babba, Alhaji Aminu Babba Dan’agundi; and the Galadiman Kano, Alhaji Munir Sanusi, who is associated with the camp of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II.
Isma’eel said the engagements reflected the principles of community-oriented policing, particularly dialogue, cooperation with traditional institutions and proactive efforts to prevent the escalation of conflict.
She maintained that such an approach was important for promoting peace, stability and public order in Kano State.
However, Isma’eel criticised remarks attributed to the Kano State Commissioner for Information, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, concerning the emirate dispute.
She described the comments as inappropriate and urged the commissioner to exercise restraint in his public statements, given his responsibility for communicating the state government’s position.
She also advised Waiya to adopt a more conciliatory approach, arguing that dialogue, diplomacy and constructive engagement with relevant stakeholders were essential to managing sensitive disputes.
Isma’eel further called on public officials to prioritise peace and responsible communication, warning that inflammatory or ill-considered statements could heighten tensions and undermine efforts to maintain stability.
She urged all stakeholders to exercise restraint and work collectively to protect the peace, unity and interests of Kano residents.
