Namadi and betrayal of Kano’s war on drugs

The recent release on bail of Suleiman Aminu, popularly known as Danwawu, who is standing trial following his arraignment in May 2025 by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has set tongues wagging on social media. The followers of the case have been expressing their outrage, and rightly so.

When the NDLEA arraigned Danwawu, its spokesman in Kano, Maigatari, described it as a major feat and a breakthrough in the renewed efforts to wage war against drug abuse in the state.

“His arraignment marks a significant victory in the ongoing battle against drug-related crimes and highlights the agency’s unwavering commitment to eradicating drug trafficking in all its forms,” he stressed in a statement.

No doubt, Danwawu’s arrest and subsequent arraignment in the court had fueled optimism in a state struggling with high statistics of drug abuse cases and a surge in thuggery. The reason is not far-fetched. Danwwu, according to media reports, had attained notoriety as one of the most wanted drug barons in the state. He “has been a long-standing figure in illicit drug operations, running a network that has fueled substance abuse and insecurity across Kano and surrounding states,” according to the NDLEA.

This is why his sudden release on bail with the help of Kano State Commissioner of Transport, Ibrahim Namaddi, came as a flabbergasting experience to us. Some have opined that the development has the potential to deal a heavy blow to the state’s fight against illicit drugs.
No one should dismiss their pessimism as Danwawu’s arrest was a significant milestone in the battle against drug trafficking, which has destroyed countless lives, especially among the youth. His operations were linked to the distribution of dangerous substances that have fueled crime, addiction, and societal decay in Kano.

This situation has far-reaching implications. First, it erodes public trust in the government’s anti-drug campaign. If drug barons can secure their freedom through political connections, citizens may begin to see the entire effort as a mere charade. Second, it emboldens other drug traffickers, sending a dangerous message that they can evade justice if they have the right allies. Third, it demoralizes law enforcement agencies like the NDLEA, whose officers risk their lives to make such arrests, only to see suspects walk free due to political interference.

Surprisingly, despite the media razzmatazz surrounding the case, Namaddi, who was supposed to be more informed than most of us, feigned ignorance. In a statement he released to the media, the commissioner said, “At no point was I aware of the gravity of his alleged criminal activities or his controversial profile.”

He went further to express regret, saying that he deeply regretted the unfortunate incident and “wish to assure the government and good people of Kano State that I remain firmly committed to justice, accountability, and the rule of law”.

Since, however, Namaddi has subjected himself to accountability, it is my opinion that he should vacate his position to enable proper investigation of a matter which has the potential to significantly damage Kano’s image at a time when the state is trying to shed its reputation as a hub for drug trafficking.
If Namaddi can escape accountability, it will certainly raise doubts about the sincerity of the government’s efforts and could discourage individuals, especially partners, and federal agencies from taking Kano’s anti-drug war seriously.

To salvage the situation, the Kano State government must take urgent action. There should be an immediate and transparent investigation into the circumstances of Danwawu’s bail. If a commissioner was involved, he must be suspended and prosecuted to demonstrate that no one is above the law. The government must also reaffirm its support for the NDLEA and ensure that political interference does not undermine its operations. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf should address the public, reassuring them that his administration remains committed to the fight against drugs and that no one, regardless of their position, will be allowed to sabotage this critical effort.

The release of Danwawu is more than just a legal matter—it is a test of the government’s resolve. If Kano is to win the war against drugs, it must prove that political connections cannot shield criminals from justice. The future of the state depends on it. The fight against drugs is a fight for the soul of Kano, and it must be pursued with untiring determination, no matter whose interests are at stake.

Musa wrote in from Abuja.