Kano task force to expose those seeking release of drug suspects, warns public
Kola Oyelere, Kano
The Chairman of the Kano State Joint Task Force Committee on Drug Abuse, Illicit Drug Trafficking and Gang-Related Violence, Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rimingado, has warned that anyone seeking the release of suspected drug traffickers, drug addicts or thugs arrested by the committee will be publicly exposed.
Rimingado said the committee would not hesitate to reveal the identities of individuals, including politicians, who attempt to influence or threaten its operations in a bid to secure the release of suspects.
He stated that such actions amounted to supporting criminality and undermining ongoing efforts to rid Kano State of drug abuse, illicit drug trafficking and gang-related violence.
The chairman issued the warning on Tuesday ,during a meeting with journalists in Kano, where he appealed to media organisations, community leaders and residents to support the state’s campaign against substance abuse and related crimes.
He explained that the committee was established by the Kano State Government as part of a broader strategy to address the growing menace of drug abuse and its connection to violent crime across the state.
Rimingado recalled that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf declared a statewide public health emergency on substance abuse on July 22 before inaugurating the multi-agency committee with the mandate to combat illicit drug trafficking, rehabilitate victims of drug abuse and ensure the prosecution of offenders.
According to him, the committee will adopt a community-based approach while working closely with the media to raise public awareness and mobilise public support for the campaign.
He cited security statistics indicating that drug abuse remains a major driver of criminal activities in Kano, noting that about 70.2 per cent of more than 3,080 major crime arrests recorded by the police last year were linked to substance abuse.
He said tackling the root causes of drug abuse would significantly reduce crime and improve public safety across the state.
Rimingado also disclosed that the committee would intensify efforts to curb gang-related violence, popularly known as Daba, describing it as a direct consequence of substance abuse.
He warned that individuals involved in violent activities would be prosecuted in accordance with the law, stressing that the state government remains committed to enforcing relevant legal measures against offenders.
The chairman urged parents to take greater responsibility for monitoring and guiding their children to prevent them from becoming involved in drug abuse and criminal activities.
He emphasized that protecting the future of young people requires collective responsibility and sustained public engagement.
Rimingado reiterated that the success of the campaign depends on the active participation of all stakeholders, including the media, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations and members of the public.
He assured residents that the committee would continue to engage stakeholders and strengthen partnerships aimed at restoring peace, curbing drug-related crimes and promoting a safer Kano State.