Kano Civil Society Forum Members Vow to Resist Intimidation, Fight for Justice
The Executive Director of Citizens for Development and Education (CDE), Amb. Ibrahim Waiya, has refuted claims circulating in the media and on social platforms that he has been suspended from the Kano Civil Society Forum (KCSF) by its Board of Trustees (BOT). The purported suspension was reportedly announced in a press release signed by Alhaji Hamisu Isa Sherifai, who claims to be the Secretary of the KCSF Board.
This was contained in a press statement signed availbla to Newsmen by Bahir A Bashir Media Aid to Amb. Ibrahim Waiya on Friday.
Amb. Waiya described the allegations as baseless and a misrepresentation of facts, emphasising the need to set the record straight to prevent further misinformation.
According to him, the controversy stems from his opposition to what he termed a “kangaroo election” orchestrated by the BOT to select new leadership for the KCSF. Waiya criticised the process, noting that fewer than 50 organisations out of the 200 registered members participated, rendering the election non-transparent, non-inclusive, and devoid of credibility.
“It is disappointing that the BOT, which should uphold the integrity of the civil society sector, is undermining its principles with actions that lack accountability and fairness,” Waiya stated.
He also challenged the BOT’s authority to suspend a registered member, pointing out that such a decision lies exclusively with the Executive Council following a thorough investigation, as stipulated in the KCSF constitution. Waiya stressed that the BOT’s actions overstep their jurisdiction, as they are not empowered to manage the organisation’s day-to-day affairs or impose executive decisions unilaterally.
The ambassador further highlighted the constitutional right to a fair hearing, which he said was disregarded in the BOT’s attempt to suspend him. He argued that the BOT’s actions are rooted in desperation to legitimise a leadership structure that is currently under legal scrutiny.
Waiya reaffirmed his commitment to justice and the collective development of Kano, the North, and Nigeria. He urged KCSF members, colleagues, and supporters to disregard the “misleading propaganda” and remain calm while the issue is challenged in court.
“The purported suspension is a mere distraction and holds no merit. This is not about personal reputation but about safeguarding the integrity of civil society and fighting for what is right,” Waiya concluded.
This latest development highlights ongoing tensions within the Kano Civil Society Forum, with stakeholders calling for transparency, inclusiveness, and adherence to democratic principles in its operations.
