Opposition parties free to use govt properties for campaign in Kano – Ganduje

Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the Kano State Governor, on Monday said opposition parties in Kano have the right to use public properties in the state, including sports complexes, for their campaign rallies, the state.

He also directed that the facilities be made available to all political parties.

He, however, said any political party wishing to use the facilities must first obtain clearance from security agencies.

Ganduje was reacting to complaints by opposition parties that they had been deprived access to public facilities as though their members are not citizens of this country, while noting that its decision to allow the opposition have access to government facilities is part of its avowed commitment to ensure a level playing field for all political parties in the state.

This was contained in a statement by the State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Malam Muhammad Garba, on Monday.

Malam Garba, who is also the spokesman for the Gawuna/Garo Campaign Council, gave the assurance saying political parties can have access to facilities such as the stadium but must obtain clearance from security agencies on safe use of the facilities.

He said the state government remained consistent on its policy of giving equal right as mark of its respect for democratic ideals.

“Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje has directed that the facilities be made available to the political parties and called on them to always ensure proper use of the facilities and guard against any damage to them.

“He (Ganduje) also expressed the hope that the parties will conduct their campaign rallies peacefully,” the statement said.