The Presidential Task Force delegation on COVID-19 has arrived Kano State to assist the Governor Abdullahi Ganduje administration probe the mass deaths in the state.
Leader of the delegation, Dr Nasir Gwarzo told Governor Ganduje that the increasing number of death in the state is becoming a source of concern to President Muhammadu Buhari who expressed his willingness to support the state in finding a lasting solution.
Gwarzo who is also the Special Adviser to the Minister of Health, Osagie Ehanire, said the delegation’s mission is to liaise with all development partners and the state government.
He also stated that they will identify both the remote and immediate courses of the mass death as well as to re-enforce response on the coronavirus in the state.
According to him, a provision has been made for the isolation of mild cases and all necessary facilities have been provided at the site.
The delegation is expected to provide its findings as regards to the state mysterious death in the coming days.
The Kano State Government has said that it would extend the lockdown in the state for another seven days.
Governor Abdullahi Ganduje revealed the plan during an interview on Channels TV’s Politics Today on Wednesday.
The state had initially imposed a seven-day lockdown which took effect from April 16 and was to expire on April 23, but with the rise of COVID-19 cases in the state, the governor said it had become necessary to extend the lockdown so as to curb the spread of the disease.
He, however, noted that tomorrow, April 23, will be declared a free day to allow residents to make preparations for the Ramadan period.
“The lockdown was initially for one week, which is expiring tomorrow but we’ve declared that (from 6:00 am) tomorrow (to 12 midnight), will be a free day so that people will make preparations for the fasting period but by midnight, the lockdown will continue for another seven days,” Ganduje said.
Addressing the issue of the number of deaths recorded in the state, the governor noted that contrary to news reports that scores of persons have died from the COVID-19, there has only been one death so far in the state.
He said a lot of the news making the rounds are false and the government is making efforts to arrest peddlers of such fake news.
“That information is not correct because we undertook some survey and investigation (about the initial report of 70 deaths). We found out that it was only 13 deaths in that place and we will soon get a complete report but I assure you that that information is not correct,” the governor said, adding, “looking at previous reviews, there is nothing to show that there is a usual frequency of deaths.
“The death recorded from coronavirus is only one and the NCDC is aware of that,”.
His comments come hours after the newly established testing centre for COVID-19 in the State suspended its operation.
The Director of the Centre for Infectious Diseases Research, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH), Isah Abubakar who confirmed this to Channels Television said the centre had run out of test kits.
Abubakar added that the centre would remain closed until new test kits are supplied from Abuja, the nation’s capital.
Beyond the issue of lack of sufficient testing kits, the governor, while addressing the matter, disclosed that there might have also been cases of infections among the staff at the centre.
He, however, gave the assurance that the Federal Government is handling the matter.
“The laboratory has been closed down for today and we understand that there is an infection within the laboratory. Probably some of the technicians have tested positive but I think the Federal Government is taking care of the urgently.
“Also there is the issue of scarcity of reagents and scarcity of the bottles that convey the samples. That too has been discussed with the DG who has assured us that they are taking action,” Ganduje said.
The Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje, has reacted to the controversy over the number of deaths recorded in the state from the COVID-19.
Speaking during an interview on Channels TV’s Politics Today, Ganduje said contrary to some reports that there have been several deaths from the COVID-19, only one death has actually been recorded since the disease hit the state.
“That information is not correct because we undertook some survey and investigation (about the initial report of 70 deaths). We found out that it was only 13 deaths in that place and we will soon get a complete report but I assure you that that information is not correct,” the governor said.
He added that “looking at previous reviews, there is nothing to show that there is an unusual frequency of deaths”.
According to him, there has been a rise in the spread of fake news but the government has started making efforts to arrest peddlers.
“You know that there is a lot of fake news going around and we have already started arresting all those who are peddling such rumours.
“The death recorded from coronavirus is only one and the NCDC is aware of that,” the governor stressed.
His comments come hours after the newly established testing centre for COVID-19 in the State suspended its operation.
The Director of the Centre for Infectious Diseases Research, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH), Isah Abubakar who confirmed this to Channels Television said the centre had run out of test kits.
Abubakar added that the centre would remain closed until new test kits are supplied from Abuja, the nation’s capital.
Beyond the issue of lack of sufficient testing kits, the governor, while addressing the matter, disclosed that there might have also been cases of infections among the staff at the centre.
He, however, gave the assurance that the Federal Government is handling the matter.
“The laboratory has been closed down for today and we understand that there is an infection within the laboratory. Probably some of the technicians have tested positive but I think the Federal Government is urgently taking care of it.
“Also, there is the issue of scarcity of reagents and scarcity of the bottles that convey the samples. That too has been discussed with the DG who has assured us that they are taking action,” Ganduje said.
On the issue of the one-week total lockdown in the state which took effect from April 16, and is expected to expire by tomorrow, April 23, the governor explained that because of the increase in the number of cases, there has to be an extension of the lockdown.
He, however, said April 23, would be declared a free day to allow residents to prepare for the Ramadan.
“The lockdown was initially for one week, which is expiring tomorrow but we’ve declared that (from 6:00 am) tomorrow (to 12 midnight) will be a free day so that people will make preparations for the fasting period. By midnight, the lockdown will continue for another seven days”.
Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje, says the move is necessary to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the state.
Governor Abdullahi Ganduje has signed the Kano State Infectious Diseases Regulation Law 2020, to allow him deport Almajiris who are non-indigenes of the state.
The governor disclosed the development on the new regulation on Sunday when he received a situation report from the State’s Task Force on COVID-19 and the fundraising committee at the Government House in Kano.
The new law empowers the governor to take any action necessary to prevent the spread of infectious diseases in the state.
This includes closing down places of worship, market places, motor parks, public gathering and any other activity that may likely lead to the spread of the infection.
Ganduje stated that the state government had set up a high-powered Almajiri committee under the leadership of the Commissioner for Local Government and Chairman Tsangaya Schools Committee, Murtala Garo.
“We closed all schools in the state to curb the spread of the pandemic but we found out that existence of Almajiri schools is constituting a stumbling block,” the governor said.
According to the Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC), Kano State has 36 confirmed cases of COVID-19.
Ben Ayade Samuel Ortom Hope Uzodinma Abdullahi Ganduje
Four more governors have mourned the Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari, who died from complications caused by coronavirus (COVID-19).
In separate statements on Saturday, the governors of Cross River, Benue, Imo, and Kano States condoled with President Muhammadu Buhari over the death of his aide.
Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River said he was utterly depressed by the sad news of Kyari’s death, saying his departure was a great loss to the nation.
“We have lost a great statesman, a consummate professional, and an exceptionally brilliant mind. Our nation has lost one of its best,” the governor said in a statement.
According to him, Kyari was a patriotic statesman who was diligent and meticulous, uncommonly accommodating, and a great listener who was ever receptive to anyone who came across him.
“My heart and prayers are with the family at this very difficult moment. I pray for the repose of Mallam Kyari’s soul,” Governor Ayade added.
On his part, Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, sent condolences to the President on behalf of the government and people of the state.
He said the demise of a loved one such as a trusted aide can be devastating, noting that death was an inevitable end for which mankind must prepare at all times.
Chief of Staff to the President, Mr Abba Kyari, attends the Federal Executive Council meeting at the State House in Abuja on July 25, 2018. The Presidency said Kyari died on April 17, 2020.
Governor Ortom also extended his sympathies to the Kyari family and prayed that God would grant the late Chief of Staff eternal rest.
For the Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, Kyari was a pan-Nigerian who devoted his energy and time to the service of his country.
He condoled with President Buhari, Nigerians as well as the government and people of Borno State on the unfortunate loss.
Governor Uzodinma prayed God for the peaceful repose of the soul of the late Chief of Staff and grant the President, the family of Kyari, and his numerous friends and associates the fortitude to bear the loss.
Joining his colleagues, Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State prayed for Allah’s forgiveness and blessing for Kyari whom he described as highly reserved and loyal Chief of Staff to the President.
“On behalf of the government and good people of Kano State, I am commiserating with the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, the Federal Government, his families, and the entire Nigerians over the death of Malam Abba Kyari,” he said.
The governor added, “May Allah see him through in the hereafter. May he meet his Lord, with all cleanliness and may Allah give him everlasting peace.”
Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje, spoke to reporters on Friday, February 7, 2020.
Governor Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje of Kano state and his wife Professor Hafsat Abdullahi Ganduje have both tested negative for COVID-19, the deadly disease threatening global health.
The governor disclosed this in a communique on Thursday, April 2nd.
“We thank Almighty Allah for this result which shows negative. That is how He (Allah) wishes. All those whose results are positive, we will continue praying for their quick recovery from the illness. Irrespective of race, nationality, ethnicity, social status, political or religious affiliations,” Governor Gandiuje said.
He also prayed for Allah’s continued protection against COVID-19 in the state, the country and the world in general, adding that, “While we pray for Divine intervention we must make sure that, we always listen to health professionals and work with their professional advice.”
Governor Ganduje urged members of the public to observe regular hand washing with running water, usage of hand sanitizer, keeping tidy environment, avoidance of gatherings, particularly in markets and other public places among others.
The governor also stressed the need to stay at home for the period.
“Staying at home is safer, healthier and most appropriate. I also urge Nigerians to strictly abide by directives given by the federal government as another mechanism in containing the spread of the disease.”
After receiving the results Governor Ganduje assured and encouraged all residents of Kano, assuring them that his government would maintain the proactive measures against COVID-19.
He said his government is engaging health experts, professionals and other stakeholders, as part of a multi-faceted and concerted effort against the threats and possible spread of the disease.
“It is our responsibility to see that this deadly COVID-19 is fought from all angles, so as to have safer and healthier society. We thank Almighty Allah that up to this time there is no reported case in Kano. May Allah save those from other states in the country and other affected nations of the world,” he stated.
He reiterated his commitment in making sure that the directive given by the state government on boundary closure is strictly observed and assured that any defaulter caught would face the wrath of the law.
He used the opportunity to thank the State Task Force on COVID-19, chaired by the Deputy Governor, Dr Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna and Co-Chaired by Prof. Abdulrazaq Garba Habibu and all members of the committee, over their unrelenting efforts against Coronavirus.
“Our thanks also goes to the Fund Raising Committee, under the Chairmanship of Prof. Muhammad Yahuza Bello, Vice Chancellor, Bayero University, Kano and Co-chaired by Alhaji Tajuddeedn Dantata and all those who started sending in their assistance, like Alhaji Aminu Dantata, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Dangote Group, Alhaji Abdussamad Isyaka Rabi’u, BUA Group of Companies, Lee Group of Companies, United Bank for Africa (UBA), among other respectful individuals and organisations,” the Governor remarked.
Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, monitors the enforcement exercise at one of the state’s borders on Mach 31, 2020.
The Kano State Government has ordered the arrest of some persons who defied the boundary closure directive given by the state government on Friday, March 27, as part of measures to curb the spread of the COVID-19.
The defaulters were caught at different locations of the road coming into the state by the governor himself, Abdullahi Ganduje, who was at the boundary town linking Kano and Kaduna State.
They included drivers of two tippers, two trucks, two buses, and one car.
“We are here to see how people are complying with the directive we gave for boundary closure,” the governor told journalists after inspecting the area.
“These people you are seeing will all be taken to the Police station and they will be prosecuted for such unpatriotic behavior,” he added.
He further stated that he would ensure that more security personnel are deployed to not only the Kaduna-Abuja axis but all the routes linking the state with other states.
Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State has ordered the suspension of all official engagements till further notice as part of the measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus in the state.
In a broadcast on Monday at the Government House in Kano, the state capital, the governor also directed the Ministry of Tourism and Culture to direct all owners of all Event Centres in the state, to suspend all activities till further notice.
“Ministry of Tourism and Culture should liaise with the owners of all event centres across the state, to stop their businesses henceforth, for the general health of the society. This position is hard and necessary for our well being,” he stated.
He also asked transport Unions to complement the efforts of the state government in making proper arrangement in the motor parks.
Tasking religious leaders on their roles towards containing the virus, Ganduje said: “Our Traditional and religious leaders are part of the major stakeholders in this collective effort.
“Hence it is very important for them to properly regulate all worship centres. All as proactive measures against Covid-19.”
Speaking further, the governor asked residents of the state to avoid gathering of more than 20 people for their safety, safety of the society and their families.
He also advised parents to always help their wards in observing the health instructions given by medical personnel of the state government.
“While these measures are being instituted, other measures have been taken by closing all schools across the State and minimizing social gatherings, we have established a high powered Taskforce under the leadership of His Excellency the Deputy Governor, Dr. Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna,” he stated.
A Federal High Court sitting in Kano has issued an order of interim injunction restraining the Kano State Anti-Corruption commission from investigating the affairs of the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, pending the hearing of the originating motion.
Emir Sanusi is being investigated for allegedly diverting funds of land property belonging to the emirate called, Gandun Sarki.
Other respondents in the motion include Muhyi Magaji Rimingado, Attorney-General of the state and Governor of the state, Abdullahi Ganduje.
Presided over by Justice Lewis Allagoa, the court ordered that, “status quo is to be maintained in the interim, pending the hearing and determination of the originating motion, that the respondents are to be served with the order of this honourable court made in this suit, and other processes through the 1st respondent and that the matter is adjourned to 18th March 2020 for hearing.”
Meanwhile, Chairman of the Commission, Muhuyi Magaji, confirmed to Channels Television that the commission has been served with all court processes and an interim order directing that status quo be maintained in the interim.
“Contrary to speculation the court did not stop the commission from investigating, the commission as a law-abiding institution will comply with the direction of the court and will follow due process of the law in dealing with the issue.”
The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission had earlier invited the Emir to appear before it on March 5th, 2020 but the Emir requested that the date be extended to March 25, but the commission denied the request and gave the Emir an extension of four more days to appear on 9th March 2020.
Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje, spoke to reporters on Friday, February 7, 2020.
Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje, on Friday, claimed Kano is the most peaceful state in the country.
The Governor made the comment when he led a Kano delegate to meet with President Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja.
“Kano state, as of today, is the most peaceful state in the country,” Ganduje said. “No armed robbery, no banditry, no tribal conflict, no religious conflict, even the few cases of kidnapping, the kingpins have been arrested.”
His comments come amid increasing reports of insecurity across the country.
The Governor credited his claims of peace to the introduction of information communication technologies into the state’s security administration. “That’s why we are succeeding,” he said.
He also noted that inter-agency cooperation is high among security officials in the state.
“There is full cooperation among the security agencies and Kano state is providing an enabling environment for the security agencies, especially in terms of community policing,” he said.
“Also we have succeeded in establishing a very powerful command and control centre where all security agencies, their representatives, do communicate with each other. And from that centre, the security agencies are being able to communicate with all the DPOs across the 44 local governments of the state.”
The Governor announced the construction of an army training centre in Falgore forest – one of the largest game reserves in the country – to deter bandits from occupying the space.
President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Supreme Court judgement that upheld the election of Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State and Simon Lalong of Plateau State on Monday.
The President felicitated with the APC National Executive Council, National Working Committee and all members for what he described as their loyalty and consistency that translated into many victories, “particularly the politically strategic states, Kano and Plateau, after tough legal challenges”.
“I am glad this tortuous journey has ended in favour of the party and our governors,” he said, in a statement signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Media & Publicity, Garba Shehu.
“APC won the states and has proved it in court. It would have been a major blow if strategically important states like Kano and Plateau are lost.”
While congratulating all the APC governors whose elections were affirmed by the Supreme Court, the President urged electorates and politicians to strengthen the country’s judicial processes by always seeking redress in court.
“It has now become standard procedure for the opposition to challenge any poll or judgement that does not return its candidates.
“Election is good when they win. The opposite is the case if someone else emerges. But that is not the way it works. Democracy is not only about who wins or who loses, but also about the process. In disparaging every unfavourable result or judgement, they disparage the entire system.”
The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kano State, Mr Abba Yusuf, has challenged the re-election of Governor Abdullahi Ganduje in the March 9 poll.
Mr Yusuf filed an appeal at the Supreme Court following the governor’s victory at the Kano State Governorship Election Tribunal and the Court of Appeal.
He was represented at the apex court by a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Adegboyega Awomolo while Governor Ganduje and his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), as well as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) were listed as respondents in the appeal.
At the sitting on Tuesday, Adegboyega urged the court to allow his client’s appeal, including setting aside the order of the lower court and grant all the prayers of the appellant.
Adegboyega predicated his argument on the ground that the Returning Officer for the governorship election in Kano State unilaterally cancelled the results from 207 polling units.
He described the action of the electoral officer as ultra vires, null and void.
The counsel representing INEC, Mr Ahmed Raji, however, countered the claims of the PDP candidate’s lawyer.
Raji, also a senior advocate, asked the court to dismiss the appeal on the ground that the allegations were not true.
He informed the court that the true situation was that agents of the appellant prevented the collation of results from the said polling units.
The lawyer added that there was no evidence to prove the cancelation of results by the returning officer as claimed by his colleague.
On his part, the counsel representing Governor Ganduje, Mr Offiong Offiong, aligned himself with the submissions of Mr Raji.
He insisted that the final results submitted by the returning officer did not contain results from the 207 polling units in dispute, and there was no way he could have cancelled results he did not have.
Offiong, however, told the court that an agent of the appellant hijacked results of 62 polling units which he later presented at the Police Headquarters in Kano.
According to him, allowing the appeal of the PDP candidate amounts to sanctioning electoral violence.
