Report by KHADIJAH ALIYU; Editing by BASIRAT MEMUDU
The Special Adviser to the Governor of Kano State on Justice and Constitutional Matters, Barrister Aminu Hussaini, has denied allegations that the government defied a police order regarding the horse procession (durbar) during the Sallah celebrations.
The special adviser made the clarification while briefing newsmen in Kano.
He explained that the prohibition on the durbar procession originated from the Governor of Kano State, and was simply announced by the State Police Commissioner.
According to him, the directive prohibiting horse procession was issued by the Governor himself, being the rightful authority under the provisions of the Public Order Act to direct or otherwise.
“The conduct of public assemblies, meetings, or processions on public roads or places of public resort; including the power to prescribe routes and times for such public processions”.
Barrister Hussaini pointed out that the police commissioner, being the lead security agent saddled with the responsibility for controlling traffic, maintenance of law and order, and prevention of crime was made to announce the prohibition.
“ Which was arrived at in consultation with all relevant stakeholders, including the emirate council itself”.
The special adviser noted that the primary goal of this decision is to ensure the protection of lives and properties and to preserve the relative peace enjoyed in Kano State.
Barrister Hussaini described the allegation made by some section of civil society as baseless adding that
“It would, make no meaningful sense to accuse the same persons who sacrificed their preference for the security and welfare of the people for defying the same directive they Issued”
The Special Adviser also hinted that the police have already commenced investigations to get to the root of the unfortunate breach of the emir’s procession on Sallah day.
