Headlines
Three reasons for mass deaths in Kano – Expert
Nasiru Yusuf
The director center for infectious diseases, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital Isa Abubakar has identified three reasons for the high number of deaths recorded this week in Kano.
Kano Focus reports that since the COVID-19 Lockdown imposed in the state the high number of deaths recorded in Kano metropolis has become a source of worry for residents.
Even though there is not an authoritative source that keeps track of deaths in Kano, investigation by Kano Focus confirms that more than 300 mostly elderly persons have died in the metropolis within four days of the lockdown.
Mr Abubakar, a professor of public health and community medicine told Kano Focus that the increasing rate of deaths could be attributed to one of three issues.
COVID-19: Kano records 23 new cases, total hits 59
Kano Lockdown: Security personnel abandon duty – KAROTA MD
“First, they could be COVID-19 patients who were not tested, though this is insignificant. Because even in the countries with COVID-19 the percentage of deaths among infected persons is low. “Second, there are some people who need treatment for different health challenges, besides COVID-19. But the attentions of major hospitals have been shifted to COVID-19 and some patients may not even have access to the hospitals due to the traffic restrictions.
“Thirdly, people are now idle at home and therefore are free to take note of the number of deaths around them. That is why people assume there is an increasing death rate while probably there is none at all.” He said
Ministry of Health reacts
Meanwhile the Kano state ministry of health said it has commenced investigation into the matter.
A statement issued on Monday by Hadiza Namadi, the spokesperson of the ministry said the state commissioner of health Aminu Tsanyawa assured that investigation into the matter is ongoing to verify the claim and possible causes of the deaths.
He also assured that the public will be informed on the outcome of the investigation in due course.
While praying for the repose of the departed souls, the commissioner advised people to continue to observe social distancing, wash hands regularly, avoid gatherings and stay at home to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
Headlines
Dangote Refinery maintains ex-depot price of PMS
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited has announced that its ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) remains unchanged, reaffirming its commitment to stability in Nigeria’s domestic energy market.
In a statement issued by Esan Sunday, Head of Media Relations, Branding and Communication, the company said sustaining the current price reflects its efforts to cushion the broader economy against external shocks. It noted that by absorbing prevailing cost pressures, the refinery is helping to moderate inflationary risks, promote energy affordability, and ensure uninterrupted fuel supply amid ongoing global uncertainties.
The company reiterated its dedication to the steady supply of high-quality petroleum products to the Nigerian market, while aligning with national objectives of price stability and energy security.
It also urged the public to rely solely on official communications from the refinery for accurate and up-to-date information regarding its operations and pricing.
Headlines
Tinubu congratulates Garo on appointment as Kano deputy governor
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo on his emergence as the Deputy Governor of Kano State following his swearing-in on Tuesday.
KANO FOCUS reports that Garo was sworn in by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf after being nominated to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of former deputy governor, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Garo’s appointment as a positive step toward strengthening unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State.
The President noted that the 48-year-old politician has held several public offices, including Chairman of Kabo Local Government Area and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs during the administration of former governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. He also served as the APC governorship running mate in the 2023 general elections.
Tinubu commended Governor Yusuf for the appointment, urging political stakeholders in the state to rally behind the administration to ensure stability and progress.
He also called on the new deputy governor to work closely with the governor in delivering effective leadership and accelerating development in Kano State.
The President wished Garo success in his new role.
Headlines
Ganduje acknowledges Sanusi II as Emir of Kano, 6 years after dethroning him
Ibrahim Khalil
A dramatic political moment unfolded in Kano on Tuesday as former governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje publicly acknowledged Muhammad Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano and Chairman of the Kano State Council of Emirs.
KANO FOCUS reports that the unexpected gesture occurred during the swearing-in ceremony of the newly appointed Deputy Governor, Murtala Sule Garo, at Government House, Kano—an event attended by top political leaders and traditional rulers.
While delivering his goodwill message, Ganduje addressed Sanusi by his full royal title, drawing immediate attention from dignitaries at the ceremony. The audience responded with loud applause when he greeted the Emir and recognised his position as head of the Kano Emirate Council.
The development is particularly significant given the long-standing rift between the two figures. Sanusi was removed from the throne during Ganduje’s administration, a decision that sparked widespread political and legal controversy at the time.
However, the political landscape shifted following the emergence of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, under whose administration Sanusi was reinstated as Emir of Kano.
Observers say Ganduje’s public acknowledgment signals a possible easing of tensions and may point to broader efforts at reconciliation within Kano’s political and traditional institutions.
The moment has since been described by analysts as a “twist of fate” in Kano politics, where former rivalries appear to be giving way to cautious gestures of respect among key actors.
