Civil‑society groups and a prominent human‑rights lawyer on Thursday launched a coordinated appeal to Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, asking him to persuade former Transport Commissioner Hon. Ibrahim Namadi to withdraw his resignation and restore him to his former post.
The plea follows Namadi’s decision to step down after intense public criticism over his role as surety for a ₦3 million bail granted to Sulaiman Aminu Danwawu, a defendant in a criminal case. In a detailed letter to Governor Yusuf, Barrister Aliyu Mohammed of the Civil Society Coalition set out the legal and factual background of the incident.
“Hon. Namadi acted within the full bounds of the law and in good faith,” the letter states. “Standing as a surety is a statutory process intended to safeguard a defendant’s right to liberty while ensuring his attendance in court.”
Mohammed clarified that a ₦5 million sum mentioned in some media reports was a separate requirement placed on the defendant, not on the surety. He added that Danwawu has been attending his trial as ordered, thereby fulfilling the purpose of the suretyship, and that Namadi has since withdrawn from the bond.
An Abuja‑based legal luminary Samuel Adanu, who has been following the matter, told our correspondent that the former commissioner has not committed any crime.
“Acting as a surety for a suspect is a standard practice in our judiciary, where bail conditions may include the involvement of civil servants at various levels,” Adanu said. “I am appealing to the former commissioner and the state governor to resolve this matter in the interest of the state.”
Adanu warned that the issue had been “politicised to a level which the governor should understand that there are fifth‑columnists in his government who may be working for the opposition.”
A committee set up by the state government has cleared Namadi of any financial impropriety.
“The committee found no evidence of wrongdoing or personal gain on the part of Hon. Namadi, reinforcing the legal presumption that his actions were lawful.”said a source close to the governor who pleaded anonymity.
Beyond the bail controversy, the appeal highlighted Namadi’s broader contributions to the state. As Transport Commissioner, he oversaw reforms that improved traffic management, streamlined licensing procedures and strengthened coordination among stakeholders. His tenure, the letter says, was marked by “efficiency, reform and visible progress in transport regulation.”
Namadi has also been active in youth empowerment, providing capital and mentorship to young entrepreneurs. According to Mohammed, these initiatives have helped reduce youth vulnerability to crime.
Politically, Namadi is described as a key figure within the ruling New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP). He is said to have played a role in the party’s cohesion and governance agenda. His resignation, the appeal argues, was a self‑sacrificing act intended to spare the administration unnecessary distraction.
“The resignation, though difficult, demonstrates deep respect for leadership, loyalty to the state, and an uncommon sense of accountability,” the appeal reads. “It sets a commendable example of integrity and restraint in public service; qualities that should be recognized and encouraged, not punished.”
The human‑rights lawyer’s appeal calls for Namadi’s reinstatement either to his former post or to another capacity where his experience can benefit the state.
“Reinstating Hon. Namadi would be an act of fairness and moral strength, reaffirming Governor Yusuf’s reputation as a leader guided by justice, truth, and magnanimity,” the letter concludes.
Governor Yusuf’s office has not yet issued a formal response to the request. As the matter continues to generate public discussion, stakeholders await clarification on whether Namadi will be reappointed and what steps the administration will take to address broader concerns about due process and political accountability in Kano State.
