Kano Governor Declares State of Emergency on Drug Abuse

Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has declared a state of emergency on drug abuse, implementing a decisive executive order to combat illicit drug trafficking and substance abuse across the state. The governor signed the Public Safety Emergency on Substance Abuse Executive Order at the Government House, Kano, signaling a firm stance against drug-related crimes and a commitment to restoring public safety.

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The movement restriction will be enforced daily from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 a.m., while security agencies have been empowered to stop, search, arrest and prosecute anyone found violating the order.

The new order strictly prohibits the sale of illicit drugs and unregistered pharmaceutical products without valid prescriptions. Furthermore, Governor Yusuf announced movement restrictions in areas identified as major drug abuse hotspots. These restrictions will be enforced daily from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 a.m., with security agencies empowered to stop, search, arrest, and prosecute any individuals found violating the order. Properties used for the sale or trafficking of illicit drugs will face severe sanctions, including the revocation of their Certificates of Occupancy.

Governor Yusuf emphasized that drug abuse poses a significant threat to security and public peace, fueling violent crime, devastating families, weakening the economy, and undermining social stability. He expressed deep concern over the rising number of young people involved in substance abuse, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated action. To spearhead these efforts, Yusuf inaugurated an Anti-Substance Abuse Task Force.

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Certificates of Occupancy of properties used for the sale and trafficking of illicit drugs will be revoked.

This task force is mandated to identify, map, and dismantle drug dens and the hideouts of criminal gangs, known locally as 'Daba.' It will also be responsible for arresting and prosecuting gang leaders, members, sponsors, and financiers involved in drug trafficking. The governor pledged full administrative support, including funding, vehicles, and operational independence, to the task force. The task force will coordinate intelligence gathering, enforcement, public awareness campaigns, rehabilitation programs, and collaboration with various stakeholders to effectively address the pervasive issue of substance abuse in Kano.

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We understand the enormity of this responsibility and will work closely with security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, educational institutions and community leaders to combat drug