By Najib Lawan Dambazau
Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Abdulkarim Kabiru Maude (SAN), has declared a zero-tolerance stance against thuggery, gang violence and other criminal activities, assuring residents that offenders will face swift prosecution.
Maude made the declaration while calling on residents to support government efforts aimed at ending the menace of thuggery and related crimes in Kano metropolis and across the state.
He said the Ministry of Justice remained fully committed to ensuring that all individuals arrested in connection with thuggery, violent attacks, public disturbances and other acts capable of threatening public peace are prosecuted in accordance with the law.
“I call on all members of the public to cooperate with government in the collective effort to eradicate thuggery and criminal violence in Kano State. The Ministry of Justice is fully prepared to prosecute anyone found culpable of engaging in thuggery, violence or acts of lawlessness.
“We are determined to withstand any pressure or challenges from any quarter in our pursuit of justice and accountability,” he said.
The attorney-general dismissed claims that the state government had directed or influenced the release of suspects arrested for thuggery and related offences.
According to him, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has consistently supported the Ministry of Justice and other relevant agencies in the fight against crime and the promotion of the rule of law.
He appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders, civil society organisations, religious leaders and security agencies to continue supporting efforts to restore lasting peace and security in the state.
Maude assured residents that suspects arrested for involvement in thuggery and criminal violence would be promptly charged to court and made to face the full weight of the law.
He also urged security agencies to intensify surveillance, intelligence gathering and lawful operations aimed at identifying and arresting perpetrators of criminal activities for prosecution.
The commissioner reiterated the commitment of the Kano State Government and the Ministry of Justice to the implementation of the Kano First Agenda, particularly in the areas of public safety, justice and protection of lives and property.
He further called on residents to assist security agencies with credible and timely information on criminal elements operating within their communities, stressing that public cooperation remains critical to winning the fight against crime.
Maude expressed appreciation to the people of Kano State for their continued support and confidence in the administration, and prayed for sustained peace, unity, progress and prosperity in the state and the country at large.
