We’ll not respond to intimidation with violence – Kwankwasiyya Movement

The Kwankwasiyya Movement has pledged to use legal avenues to protect its members and citizens in Kano State against what it terms intimidation and harassment from authorities. The group, loyal to NDC vice-presidential candidate Rabiu Kwankwaso, made clear its stance against responding to alleged intimidation with violence.

In a statement released on Wednesday by spokesperson Dr. Habibu Sale Mohammed, the movement emphasized its commitment to peaceful methods, relying on petitions, legal representation, and judicial reviews. "We will not encourage our members to take the law into their own hands," the statement asserted.

This declaration follows a concerning report by Amnesty International, which highlighted alleged arrests and harassment of critics of the Kano State Government. The organization pointed to multiple instances where individuals faced threats for voicing opposition.

Kwankwasiyya expressed that the Amnesty report validated its concerns regarding a diminishing democratic space in Kano. The movement specifically highlighted the ongoing detention of Abba Ibrahim Kofar Nasarawa, known as Aiha K Nass, who has been in custody since August.

Aiha K Nass was initially denied bail during a Shari’a Court proceeding, although bail was later granted with stringent conditions, including the requirement of two serving permanent secretaries and a Kano State Government employee as sureties—conditions that have hindered his release.

In response, Kwankwasiyya has formally petitioned the Chief Judge of Kano State and the Kano State Judicial Service Commission to review the handling of the Shari’a Court proceedings. The aim is to seek an impartial review of the case through established legal channels.

“Our approach will remain constitutional, peaceful, and lawful,” the movement reiterated, calling for the Kano State Government and security agencies to respect citizens' rights to free expression and assembly.

The group urged an immediate and unbiased review of cases involving those detained or prosecuted for political expression, including Aiha K Nass, as identified by Amnesty International.

Furthermore, Kwankwasiyya appealed to the judiciary to uphold its independence and ensure fair treatment for all citizens appearing before the courts.

As tensions rise, the movement encouraged its members and supporters to maintain peace and adhere to lawful conduct in their pursuit of justice and democratic rights.