Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has been accused of restricting the African Democratic Congress (ADC) from erecting campaign billboards across the state. Salihu Tanko Yakasai, a prominent member of the ADC, made the allegation in a statement on his Facebook page. Yakasai claimed that the state government had prevented the opposition party from using billboard spaces to publicise its activities ahead of the 2027 general elections. This move could limit the ability of opposition parties to communicate their messages to voters through outdoor advertising.
Yakasai criticised the alleged action by comparing it with accusations of political restrictions made against the All Progressives Congress (APC) in some other states. He expressed disappointment that such actions could occur in Kano, stating that he never imagined the kind of oppression the APC is accused of could happen in the state. Yakasai called on Governor Yusuf to remember the temporary nature of political power and the possibility of changes in political circumstances.
Yakasai warned that political fortunes could change, stressing that individuals who hold powerful positions today may not remain in the same position tomorrow. He referred to Governor Yusuf's political experiences before he became governor, arguing that some of the individuals whom Yusuf had previously accused of oppression were now within the governor's sphere of authority. Yakasai urged Governor Yusuf to consider the consequences of his political decisions.
The controversy comes against the background of Kano State's existing regulations on outdoor advertising. In June 2023, shortly after Governor Yusuf assumed office, the state government announced restrictions on indiscriminate outdoor advertising and the pasting of posters on public and private property. The government directed individuals and organisations to use approved billboards and electronic platforms for poster displays.
The Kano State Signage and Advertisement Agency had previously stated that it would provide equal opportunity to political parties and other interest groups ahead of the 2027 elections. The agency's Director-General, Kabiru Dakata, stated that both ruling and opposition parties would be allowed to display campaign messages as long as they complied with the agency's regulations. This earlier assurance has added weight to the fresh allegation made by the ADC.
Yakasai urged political leaders to exercise restraint in dealing with opposition parties, warning against actions that could be interpreted as an attempt to silence or disadvantage political opponents. He appealed to Governor Yusuf to consider the consequences of his political decisions and remember that those in government would eventually leave office. Yakasai warned that the alleged injustice would not be overlooked.
The allegation has not been independently established, and the reason for the reported restriction remains unclear. The governor's Director of Media and Publicity, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, was unavailable for comment on the allegation as of press time. The controversy highlights the tensions between the ruling party and opposition parties in Kano State ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Key points
- Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf accused of restricting opposition party's campaign billboards
- Allegation made by Salihu Tanko Yakasai, a prominent member of the African Democratic Congress
- Controversy highlights tensions between ruling party and opposition parties in Kano State ahead of 2027 elections
