By Hassan Sani Tukur
Thuggery, characterized by wanton violence, intimidation, and disruption, has unfortunately become a recurrent issue in the politics of Kano State. In recent times, the build up to the 2019 elections, from the campaigns and the conduct of 2019 Kano rerun has set a dangerous precedent whose pace naturally prepared the trajectory 2023 campaigns and elections would follow and it did follow, only difference is, in 2023, the will of the Kano citizenry eventually prevailed. It prevailed at a cost, a supreme cost of loss of lives and properties, disruption, and unprecedented widespread fear mongering. This piece simply proposes recommended solutions to address this pressing issue. By tackling the root causes, promoting good governance, and empowering the youth, we can create a more peaceful and inclusive political environment in Kano State. We can have a seamless electoral process with massive reduction in violence and disruption.
The new administration of Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf has demonstrated its willingness to curb this menace.
It is on record that immediately after his inauguration on the 29th May, 2023, the governor’s first port of call was an official assessment visit to the Kiru Reformatory Institute, an institution established to reform and reintegrate drug addicts and thugs into the society by the Kwankwaso administration.
The governor went further to establish a special joint task-force to fight phone snatching and other violent crimes, and obviously we can all attest to the reduction of these crimes since inception of the task force. Worthy of commendation also, are the efforts of the Kano State Command of the Nigerian Police Force under its current Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Gumel. We have seen criminals being arrested and paraded but most importantly, was the recent identification and invitation of 20 former crime syndicate gang leaders by the force. Sustained efforts like these and the recommendations below, I believe will cause tremendous breakthrough in the fight against these crimes.
Unemployment and lack of opportunities contribute to the vulnerability of young individuals who may resort to thuggery as a means of survival. To combat this, the government and relevant stakeholders should prioritize youth empowerment programs, vocational training, and skill development initiatives. By providing avenues for economic growth and self-sufficiency, young people can be encouraged to engage positively in the society and reject involvement in thuggery.
Efficient law enforcement is prime in curbing thuggery. The government should invest in training and equipping the police force to handle political violence promptly and impartially.
Also, specialized units focused on monitoring and addressing political violence should be established to ensure swift action against perpetrators.
Additionally, strict enforcement of existing laws against thuggery and political violence should be prioritized.
Raising public awareness about the negative consequences of thuggery is crucial.
Importantly, public campaigns, educational programs, and media initiatives should be implemented to educate citizens about the importance of peaceful political participation.
Emphasizing the value of dialogue, negotiation, and non-violent means of conflict resolution can help change
mindsets and discourage support for thuggery.
Political parties also play a significant role in shaping the behavior of their members. The parties should enforce strict codes of conduct, ensuring that candidates with a history of thuggery are not allowed to run for office. Internal party mechanisms should be established to address grievances and resolve disputes peacefully. Additionally, political parties should promote internal democracy, transparency, and inclusivity to prevent the emergence of factions that may resort to thuggery.
Civic education programs should be implemented to promote a culture of informed and responsible citizenship. This includes educating citizens on their rights, the importance of peaceful political participation, and the power of their vote. By empowering voters with knowledge and awareness, they can make informed choices and reject politicians who rely on thuggery to gain power.
Efforts should be also be made to strengthen democratic institutions, including the judiciary, electoral bodies, and anti-corruption agencies. These institutions should be independent, impartial, and free from political interference. By ensuring the rule of law and holding individuals accountable for their actions, the prevalence of thuggery can be reduced.
The menace of thuggery in Kano State politics requires a multi-faceted approach. By strengthening law enforcement, raising public awareness, empowering the youth, implementing political party reforms, promoting civic education, and strengthening institutions, Kano State can overcome this challenge. It is essential for all stakeholders, including the government, civil society organizations, political parties, and citizens, to work collaboratively to create a peaceful and inclusive political environment.
Only then can Kano State realize its full potential and achieve sustainable development for the benefit of all its citizens.