Over 200 civil society organisations across Nigeria have reportedly resolved to honour the Kano State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, in recognition of his professionalism and strategic handling of tensions surrounding the Kano Emirate dispute.
The decision was disclosed by Barrister Nabila Abba Isma’eel, a member of one of the organisations, who said the planned recognition was intended to appreciate the police commissioner’s efforts to ease tensions and strengthen public confidence amid the emirate crisis.
According to Barrister Isma’eel, Commissioner Bakori demonstrated professionalism, experience and a sound understanding of security management through his strategic engagements with key traditional figures involved in the dispute.
She specifically highlighted his visits to the palace of the 15th Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero; the Sarkin Dawaki Babba, Alhaji Aminu Babba Dan’agundi; and the Galadiman Kano, Alhaji Munir Sanusi, who is associated with the camp of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II.
Barrister Isma’eel said the engagements demonstrated an effective application of community-oriented policing, which emphasises dialogue, cooperation with traditional institutions and proactive measures to prevent the escalation of conflict.
She maintained that the approach adopted by Commissioner Bakori helped ease tensions and underscored the importance of diplomatic engagement in maintaining peace, stability and public order in Kano State.
However, Barrister Isma’eel criticised recent remarks attributed to the Kano State Commissioner for Information, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, concerning the emirate dispute.
She described the comments as inappropriate and urged the commissioner to exercise greater restraint in his public statements, particularly given his responsibility for communicating the position of the Kano State Government.
She further advised Waiya to emulate the approach adopted by the police commissioner, stressing that dialogue, diplomacy and constructive engagement with relevant stakeholders remain essential tools for managing sensitive disputes.
Barrister Isma’eel also called on public officials to prioritise peace and responsible communication, warning that inflammatory or ill-considered statements could heighten tensions and undermine efforts to maintain stability.
She emphasised that all stakeholders must demonstrate restraint and work collectively to protect the peace, unity and interests of Kano residents.
