The Kano State Government has dismissed reports suggesting that Governor Abba Yusuf snubbed the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, during the Hawan Nasarawa at the Government House, Kano.
The clarification was contained in statements signed by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, on Monday, describing the circulating reports as “false, unfounded, and devoid of any factual basis.”
The government warned that the claims were misleading and appeared aimed at creating unnecessary tension.
“For the avoidance of doubt, it is an established tradition for governors to pay homage to the President during the Sallah period.
“This year, however, the Eid-el-Fitr celebration coincided with the annual strategic meeting of Nigerian governors, leading to a scheduling overlap that necessitated the Governor’s presence outside the state,” the statement read.
According to Dawakin-Tofa, the governor had communicated directly with the Emir and, in line with protocol, mandated the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Isma’il Falgore, alongside other senior officials, to receive the Emir on his behalf at the Government House.
“The governor attended the Eid prayer led by the Emir, as well as the Hawan Daushe at Gaya Emirate, and had made arrangements to personally receive the Emirs of Rano, Karaye, and Gaya.
“However, due to unavoidable scheduling clashes, senior government functionaries were delegated to represent him accordingly,” the statement added.
Yusuf was reportedly in Lagos at the time of the Hawan Nasarawa, attending an official meeting with other progressive governors, in line with his scheduled engagements.
The government reiterated that there was no rift or misunderstanding between the state administration and the Emirate Council.
“The relationship remains cordial, respectful, and anchored on mutual commitment to sustaining peace, unity, and development in Kano State,” Dawakin-Tofa said.
The statement urged members of the public to disregard the false reports and rely solely on credible and official sources for accurate information.