Former Kano State Commissioner have dragged the state government to court over what they described as a “vindictive” directive compelling them to return official vehicles allocated to them prior to their resignation.
The former commissioners, who resigned following the recent defection of Governor Abba Yusuf to the All Progressives Congress (APC), alleged that the move to retrieve the vehicles was politically motivated and targeted at undermining their integrity.
In a statement signed by AVM Umar Ibrahim (rtd) on behalf of the affected officials, the group said the Office of the Secretary to the State Government formally wrote to them requesting the return of the vehicles.
According to the statement, the former commissioners responded by drawing attention to the provisions of the Revised 2023 Revenue Mobilization and Fiscal Commission Act, which they argued justifies the allocation of such vehicles and other entitlements to certain categories of political and public office holders.
They further recalled that a former Commissioner for Transport who had earlier resigned was permitted to retain his vehicle without controversy.
“In order to ensure that rule of law is fully complied with by all and sundry, including those in authority, we immediately filed a court process to stem the tide and restore rights and privileges validly guaranteed by the law of our land,” the statement read.
The ex-officials alleged that following the court action, government operatives trespassed into their homes and intimidated their families, evacuating personal vehicles belonging to their spouses.
“Apparently, on the orders of the Governor, our personal liberty and sanctity of our family members were grossly violated and disrespected,” they claimed.
They described the action as a desperate attempt to embarrass and undermine public officers who had diligently served the state.
The former commissioners urged their supporters to remain calm while the matter is being resolved judicially, insisting that they would continue to uphold the rule of law.
They also noted that the vehicles in question were provided only four months ago, adding that for more than two years prior to that, they had used personal vehicles for official engagements..
The statement further referenced recent concerns raised by Amnesty International about civic space and alleged abuses, warning that what they termed “uncivil approaches” would not silence opposition voices.
