The Coalition of Northern Youths and Civil Society Organisations has strongly condemned the move by former Kano state Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, to establish an “independent” Hisbah agency for the 12,000 officers recently dismissed by the Kano state government. 

The Presidents of the organisations, Comrade Abdulmumin Tijjani, Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, Comrade Isah Abubakar, Northern Youth Council of Nigeria, Malam Lukman Lawal, Rt. Honourable Speaker 

North Central Youths Assembly of Nigeria (NCYAN) and Comrade Usman Saidu, Northern Youths Assembly of Nigeria.

They all made the call during the World Press  Conference, organised by the Coalition of Northern Youth and Civil Society Organisations.

“We described the move as an unconstitutional power grab capable of destabilising Kano state and warned that Ganduje’s intention to set up a parallel Hisbah structure poses a direct threat to the peace and constitutional order of Kano state.

“Ganduje, who served as governor from 2015 to 2023, recently announced plans to recruit the dismissed officers into a new independent Hisbah agency, to reinforce moral policing in Kano,” they said.

The coalition cited Section 176(2) of the 1999 Constitution, which designates the sitting Governor as the Chief Executive Officer of a state.

“The only person who can lawfully exercise executive power in Kano state today is Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.

“A former Governor has no constitutional authority to create or supervise any enforcement body,” the coalition stated.

They stressed that Ganduje is trying to establish independent hisbah in Kano, where there is already a recognised Hisbah Board, under the Kano State Hisbah Law of 2003, which vests the authority to appoint, regulate, and supervise Hisbah personnel in the Governor and the State House of Assembly.

“Any attempt to create a parallel structure is not only illegal but a direct violation of the democratic will of the people.

“The policing and internal security fall under the Exclusive Legislative List (Section 4 and Part I, Second Schedule of the Constitution). 

“This gives only the federal government power to establish police or paramilitary agencies. While states may create religious or cultural bodies, such bodies must remain under state control,” the coalition emphasised.

Warning against the dangers of Ganduje’s proposal, the coalition noted that establishing a privately coordinated body of 12,000 officers “bears the hallmarks of a private militia, prohibited under Section 227 of the Constitution.”

“Section 227 expressly forbids the maintenance of any private army, militia, or similar organisation. 

“The scale and quasi-security roles envisioned for this agency clearly violate that provision,” the coalition stressed.

They said that critics have also described Ganduje’s move as a politically motivated attempt to undermine the administration of Governor Yusuf, who was elected in 2023 on a platform of reform and inclusivity.

“Creating a parallel Hisbah during the tenure of a political rival is an overt attempt to weaken the legitimacy of an elected government.

“The initiative “dresses as a political power play in religious clothing,” the coalition added.

They further warned that such actions could heighten political tension, erode the rule of law, and worsen existing security challenges in a region already battling banditry and insurgency. 

They cautioned that allowing a privately funded religious enforcement structure to emerge would set a dangerous precedent that threatens the state’s constitutional monopoly on the use of force.

“The controversy surrounding Ganduje’s proposed “independent” Hisbah agency reflects broader national tensions between religious institutions and constitutional governance. 

“While the former governor frames his initiative as a moral obligation, legal experts, youth groups, and civil society actors insist that the plan violates the Constitution, threatens public order, and risks politicising religious policing.

“As the matter gears toward legal contestation, we urged Kano residents and Nigerians at large to remain vigilant, expressing confidence that the rule of law will prevail over political ambition,” the coalition said.

The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman, Kwara  Traditional Rulers Council, Mai-Martaba, Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has rejoiced with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, on his 10th coronation anniversary.

Sulu-Gambari, in a statement signed by his Press Secretary, Dr Abdulazeez Arowona, described Oba Ogunwusi as a phenomenal traditional ruler with a strong penchant for national interest.


He stressed that the Ooni’s contributions to security, unity, and social harmony inspired widespread public support for him in the last 10 years of his reign as the 51st Ooni of Ile-Ife.

The Emir noted that the Ooni has driven significant national interest, often involving deep commitment to shared cultural values, prosperity, and collective well-being, among others.

He recalled Oba Ogunwusi’s visit to the palace of Ilorin during an earlier period of his reign, championing unity in diversity and through frequent interactions, demonstrating mutual respect and fostering cultural exchange.

The Emir wished Oba Ogunwusi more years of peaceful reign on the throne of his ancestors.

He also thanked the government and people of Osun state, as well as the federal government, for their support in his quest for peaceful coexistence across Nigeria.

The National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Kwara Chapter, has called for quick action to stop digital violence in Nigeria.

Nigerians have been implored to report to their nearest authority, any forms of perceived Gender Based Violence (GBV), for quick dispensation of justice.

Hajia Bashirat Bola Ayantola, Kwara NAWOJ Chairperson made the call while speaking at a one-day sensitization programme of 16-day Activism to end GBV in Nigeria, in Ilorin.

The Chairperson spoke on the theme “Unite to End Digital Violence Against Women and Girls.

Ayantola said that quick action, like reporting suspects or offenders, would serve as a deterrent to others, adding that anyone found guilty would be sentenced to 20 years imprisonment.

“Make sure you report abuse to the higher authority for proper investigation and sanctions,” she said.

The Chairperson also condemned all forms of GBV, insisting that all hands must be on deck to end the menace.

Also speaking; the General Manager Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria FRCN, also the Vice-Chancellor, Nigeria Union of Journalist in Kwara, Hajia Binta Mora advised students to watch out for red flags.

Mora said that things like unusual laughter, jokes, and unpleasant comments should be looked out for and avoided, as well as avert dangers from close relatives or outsiders.

“You must be careful and watch out for red flags at all times in order to stay safe,” she said.

Others who spoke during the programme identified cyberbullying, AI negative generated contents, as major challenges in the form of digital violence.

They called for policy and laws that would further protect the right of women and girls in the society. .

The Governor of Kwara, Malam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, congratulated the people of Oke–Ode for the peace, maturity, and cooperation displayed throughout the selection and appointment process.

AbdulRazaq, represented by the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftancy Affairs and Community Development, Hon. Abubakar Bata disclosed that the presentation of staff of office is not only a symbol of authority but a reminder of the expectations of his people to promote unity, fairness, and justice among his subjects.

He noted that the position is to work closely with government at all levels to advance developmental projects at Oke–Ode communities.

The Governor also acknowledged the tremendous contribution of Ifelodun Local Government Councils, Ifelodun Traditional Council, and the king makers for the smooth transition.


In his speech, the Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government Council, Hon. Abdulrasheed Yusuf expressed sincere appreciation to the governor for his unwavering commitment to due process, justice, and community development.

Yusuf noted that the approval of the newly appointed monarch after careful consultation and completion of all other statutory procedures reflects the governor’s steadfast belief in fairness and the strengthening of traditional institutions across the state.

The Chairman re- affirmed his commitment to continue partnering with the traditional institution to sustain peace, enhance security and promote the socio- economic development of Oke–Ode.

In his acceptance speech, the newly appointed Elesha thanked the state Governor for ensuring a transparent process and assured the people of his commitment and readiness to ensure the well-being of all sons and daughters of Oke-Ode.

Also speaking, his Royal Highness, the Olupako of Share, Oba Olawale Haruna Ilufemiloye II thanked the government for ensuring that all appointments of traditional rulers in the last six years follow due process, reflecting transparent transitions in tandem with the wishes of the people.

He welcomed the newly appointed Elesha and assured him of maximum support of all royal fathers from the Council for a successful reign.

Alhaji Kola Shittu, Asiwaju of Oke–Ode Community, appreciated the government for allowing the wishes of the entire people to manifest in the appointment of the new leader

He disclosed that with the appointment of the new Elesha, the entire community will now have a rallying point for consultation and direction.

The event was well attended by sons and daughters of the community, top government officials, friends, and well wishers from outside the community.

Veteran Yoruba Actor, Lere Paimo MFR, well known as Eda Onile Ola, has reportedly passed on aged 86.

The 86 year old Veteran Lere Paimo has been bedridden for over three months now and has been at the mercy of few of his colleagues who have been taking care of him but later succumb to the cold hand of death.

The Ogbomosho, Oyo State-born actor is a National Awards holder. He has prominently featured in many Yoruba films. He is one of the biggest figures in the industry and well experienced too. No wonder he has not been featuring in movies of late! Ma God console his families, friends, colleagues and fans.

Chief Lere Paimo, MFR was born on November 19, 1939, in Ile Ikoyi Odan, Osupa, Ogbomosho, a city in Oyo State southwestern Nigeria. His father was a tobacco and yam farmer, the leader of the local farmers’ organization. His mother was a trader.

The federal government has been urged to convene  a national dialogue to end  the protracted security challenges bedeviling the nation.

Former Vice chancellor University of Abuja , Professor Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah made the call while speaking at a Public lecture titled “Religious Harmony, Cultural Presentation and Community Service: The Significance of Ilorin Emirate Pulpit” and book presentation in honour of the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Solih: The Spiritual Orator, held in Ilorin.

Na’Allah advised government to do a census of those in the city and the bushes to ensure safety and security.


He advocated for the adoption of Ilorin style of neighbourhood watch to ensure peace coexistence in the country.

According to him  the Islamic knowledge being inculcated in children has mould their characters to become good citizens.

The University Don, noted that the cultural diversity of the Ilorin Emirate, which added to the peaceful nature of the state could not be found in any part of the country.

In his address, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq ably was represented by Senior Councillor and Adviser, Alhaji Sa’adudeen Salaudeen said the Chief Imam has made foot print in Ilorin and beyond.

He commended his dogedness in the presentation of the sermons that promote peaceful coexistence in the state.


Prof. Badmas Yusuf, Book reviewer and Former Dean Postgraduate School, University of Ilorin, represented by Dr. Abdulhamid Badmas said the Chief Imam of Ilorin is a model that should be emulated.

The Book reviewer said the book had clearly showed the work of Chief Imam, his virtues and how he works for peace.

Professor Yusuf advised the author to do more and ensure update through subsequent publication.

In his remarks the Author of the book and convener of the programme, Dr Abdulazeez Arowona said the purpose of publishing the book was to educate the public on the good work of the Chief Imam of Ilorin.


He said the Imam sermon had been very impactful, through the way he speaks truth about power as well as serves as a guide for the residents of the state.

Arowona said the content of the sermon geared towards ensuring peaceful coexistence in the society.