Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has signed an Executive Order declaring a public safety emergency on substance abuse, introducing tougher measures to curb the trafficking and consumption of illicit drugs across the state.
The new directive, which took effect immediately after it was signed on Wednesday, prohibits the sale of illegal drugs and unregistered pharmaceutical products without a valid medical prescription.
As part of the measures, movement will be restricted in areas identified as major drug abuse hotspots between 6:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. daily. Security agencies have also been authorised to stop, search, arrest, and prosecute individuals linked to drug-related offences.
Governor Yusuf further announced that properties found to be used for the sale of illicit drugs risk losing their certificates of occupancy under the new order.
Following the signing, the governor inaugurated an Anti-Substance Abuse Task Force to oversee the implementation of the emergency measures. He explained that the action is backed by relevant provisions of Kano State law, which empower the government to respond to threats affecting public safety.
Describing drug abuse as a serious threat to peace and security, Yusuf said the growing involvement of young people in the use of illicit substances has contributed to violent crimes, weakened families, harmed economic development, and disrupted social stability.
The task force has been mandated to identify and dismantle drug dens, eliminate hideouts operated by Daba gangs, and target individuals involved in financing and sponsoring illicit drug activities. It is also authorised to arrest and prosecute offenders.
The governor assured members of the committee of adequate funding, operational support, office facilities, logistics, and security protection while guaranteeing their independence in carrying out their responsibilities.
In addition to enforcement, the committee will coordinate intelligence gathering, public awareness campaigns, rehabilitation efforts, and collaboration with security agencies and other stakeholders to address substance abuse across the state.
Speaking on behalf of the committee, Task Force Chairman Muhuyi Rimingado thanked the governor for the confidence placed in the members and pledged to carry out their responsibilities with fairness, professionalism, and integrity.
He also promised to work closely with security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, educational institutions, civil society groups, and community leaders to reduce drug-related crimes and promote lasting peace in Kano.
The task force includes representatives from the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), as well as traditional institutions, religious organisations, civil society groups, and the business community.
