The newly appointed governor of Kano State, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, also known as ‘Abba Gida-Gida,’ has shed light on a significant incident involving the wife of the Director General (DG) of the Department of State Services (DSS), Yusuf Magaji Bichi, shortly before the 2023 general election.
During an interactive session with Islamic clerics at the Government House in Kano, Governor Yusuf disclosed that Bichi’s wife had issued threats aimed at preventing his success in the 2023 elections. This revelation sheds light on a previously unreported aspect of the gubernatorial campaign.
Prior to the elections, social media was abuzz with news of a reported clash between Governor Yusuf’s supporters, then representing the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) as the governorship candidate, and the wife of the DSS DG at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport in Kano. The incident received significant attention and sparked public curiosity.
In a video clip that went viral, posted by Rahma TV and subsequently monitored by our correspondent, Governor Yusuf expressed his dismay over the conduct of certain Islamic clerics who rushed to blame him for the altercation without fully understanding the situation. He explained that his intention was to bring attention to the DSS personnel’s mistreatment of his supporters when he confronted Mrs. Bichi.
Governor Yusuf recounted his conversation with Mrs. Bichi, stating that he had approached her to raise concerns about the unjust treatment his followers faced at the hands of DSS personnel. However, the situation quickly escalated as she resorted to insults directed at him and his father. She vehemently declared, “I swear, we will never allow you to become the governor of Kano State.”
Adding further intrigue to the incident, Governor Yusuf claimed that Mrs. Bichi subsequently obstructed his boarding of a commercial plane, despite him having paid for his ticket. He expressed his disappointment at the unjust treatment he faced and criticized some Kano clerics who jumped to conclusions without giving him an opportunity to present his side of the story.
Addressing the gathering of clerics, Governor Yusuf emphasized his respect for all religious leaders in the state. However, he also warned that he would not tolerate baseless criticisms of his government, especially when it comes to unscrupulous allegations. This statement demonstrates his commitment to fostering constructive dialogue while remaining firm against unjust attacks.