Kano, Nigeria – The Kano State Police Command has vehemently denied allegations that it has been involved in recruiting criminals into its ranks under the guise of tackling crime and criminality within the state. A statement released by the command’s spokesperson, Abdullahi Kiyawa, clarified that only 50 out of 222 former thugs, who had previously been involved in escalating political violence but had since renounced their criminal activities and surrendered their weapons, were admitted into the police special unit.
The controversial move to absorb these individuals into the police force faced immediate backlash, with critics accusing the police command of compromising security in the state. However, in a swift response, Kano State’s Commissioner of Police, Mohammad Usaini Gumel, defended the decision, asserting that the new constables had undergone a thorough vetting process before their confirmation.
Gumel addressed the media, expressing his disbelief in the false reports and stating, “I am aware that Sahara Reporters has no correspondent or reporter here in Kano. They have not been following our events. I am rather surprised how and where they are getting such fake news.”
Gumel went on to explain that all 222 youths who had surrendered themselves were meticulously profiled and assessed for their suitability. The state governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, who had granted them amnesty, directed the police to find suitable roles for these individuals in skills acquisition and human empowerment programs.
According to the Commissioner of Police, this decision was made to prevent these youths from falling into the hands of unscrupulous politicians who might exploit them to incite trouble within the state. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf firmly supported this initiative.
The police’s conversion of former thugs into constables has not only stirred controversy but also raised questions about the state’s commitment to its citizens’ safety and security. Critics have argued that this move could potentially jeopardize law
