Headlines
Gwarzo vows to navigate local government financial autonomy
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The newly-inaugurated Forum of Commissioners for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs has pledged that the formation will have a significant effect across the country regarding the recent court decision on local government autonomy, especially issues like financial autonomy.
KANO FOCUS reports that the State Deputy Governor, Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, who doubles as the newly-appointed Chairman of the forum, made this disclosure during the Forum’s inaugural caucus meeting held in Abuja on Saturday.
According to a statement signed by the Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Ibrahim Garba Shuaibu, and made available to journalists on Saturday, the Forum chairman explained that they will not appeal any decision ruled by the Supreme Court but will instead navigate to find a safe way of conducting the administration of their respective local government ministries.
He noted that the local government service is facing numerous challenges resulting from the Supreme Court’s decisions, and the Forum has more reasons to come together, discuss, brainstorm, and find a way forward.
Gwarzo reminded that it is a known fact that the chief executives of every state and the legislative arm rely on the ministry for many things from the local government.
He emphasized that local government and chieftaincy affairs in any state are by no means a small ministry but a very large and critical sector that needs someone who is really trusted by the chief executive to head that ministry.
The Commissioner acknowledged that local government, as constituted in modern times without traditional institutions attached to it, is a very big and enormous task, now combined with chieftaincy affairs coupled with its dire demands.
He stressed that the Forum coming together to discuss and address emerging issues regarding their respective local governments nationwide is commendable and a historic step towards harnessing collective expertise to drive progress and strengthen the third tier of government.
Gwarzo also acknowledged that there are still some gray areas regarding the existence of local government in the country in terms of finances, administration, and elections, among other rising issues triggered by the Supreme Court’s decisions.
“The forum aims to create a platform to discuss how to advise their principals to improve the system across the country,” he said.
Aminu has been in the local government for the past 28 years, serving as chairman in 1996, and is currently charged with supervising the affairs of state ministries of local government and chieftaincy affairs.
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.
