The Kano State government has called for the immediate arrest and investigation of former governor Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje over what it describes as an attempt to set up an illegal militia group in the state.

Ganduje had recently announced plans to establish a Hisbah-like volunteer force under the Ganduje Foundation while reacting to the dismissal of 12,000 Hisbah personnel by the current administration.

Addressing journalists after the 34th State Executive Council meeting, Commissioner for Information and Home Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, said the council reviewed comments credited to Ganduje and Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin—comments suggesting Kano was becoming vulnerable to banditry and proposing the recruitment of 12,000 youths into a “religious police” outfit named Khairul Nas.

According to Waiya, the council considered the remarks “inciting, reckless, and capable of undermining the security efforts” of both the state and Federal Government. The government further noted that barely 48 hours after the statements were made, suspected bandits infiltrated some border communities—raising suspicion that the comments may not have been innocent.

“The council calls for the immediate investigation and arrest of the former governor for attempting to create an illegal militia group,” Waiya said.

He urged political leaders to avoid making statements that could heighten tension or destabilize the state, assuring residents that the government remains fully committed to safeguarding lives and property.