Muhammad Garba, the former Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs in Kano State, has dismissed a recent call by Kabiru Dakata of the Movement Against Corruption (MACIN) for President Bola Tinubu to distance himself from Abdullahi Ganduje, the former governor of Kano state.

Garba labelled the call as “mere gimmickry” and accused Dakata of being funded to tarnish Ganduje’s reputation.

According to Garba, Dakata hides behind his ‘briefcase’ Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) to launch attacks on the former administration in Kano.

He claimed that Dakata sought attention in the media and aimed for a possible appointment in the NNPP government in Kano.

Garba warned the public, especially the NGO community, to be vigilant of individuals who are being paid to operate fake organizations with the intention of discrediting individuals, governments, or organizations.

He cited an example of similar incidents in 2019 when fake NGOs emerged to discredit the Kano gubernatorial elections.

Garba mentioned that Dakata appeared on a popular television station allegedly sponsored to justify the NNPP’s demolition activities in Kano.

However, Garba emphasized that President Tinubu and Ganduje share a common vision and experience in governance and development, which is why they are frequently seen together. Despite efforts to create a rift between them and hinder Ganduje’s chances of obtaining a political appointment from the president, the two leaders have remained united. Garba also mentioned that both Tinubu and Ganduje are currently attending an ECOWAS Summit in Guinea Bissau.

In response, Dakata denied the allegations, stating that he is not funded to discredit Ganduje or anyone else. He claimed that his criticisms are based on his personal convictions and concerns for the betterment of Kano state, without any hidden agenda or ulterior motives.

MACIN also released a statement defending Dakata and reaffirming its commitment to promoting transparency and accountability in governance.