Kano launches task force to combat drug abuse, thuggery

Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has launched a multi-agency task force on drug abuse and signed an executive order to tackle thuggery and other criminal activities in the state.

According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, Yusuf said drug abuse remained one of the biggest challenges facing young people in Kano.

He warned that it fuels violent crime, destroys families, hurts the economy and threatens peace.

He said the new task force would lead the state’s response through intelligence gathering, enforcement, public awareness, rehabilitation and cooperation with security agencies and other stakeholders.

“The newly inaugurated task force would coordinate the state’s response to drug abuse through intelligence gathering, enforcement, public enlightenment, rehabilitation, and collaboration with security agencies and other relevant stakeholders,” he added.

The governor pledged to provide the task force with funding, vehicles, office space, logistics and security support while allowing it to operate independently.

He also said the government would continue expanding rehabilitation services, noting that separate centres for male and female drug users had already been established.

Yusuf explained that the executive order would strengthen efforts to dismantle criminal gangs, reduce political violence and support security agencies in maintaining law and order.

Task Force Chairman Barr. Muhuyi Magaji Rimingado thanked the governor for the appointment and promised that members would carry out their duties “with integrity, professionalism, and without compromise.”

He said they would work closely with security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society groups, schools and community leaders to fight drug abuse and promote lasting peace.

Governor Yusuf also urged residents to support the task force by providing useful information, expressing confidence that the new measures would help reduce drug-related crimes and make Kano safer.