The Kano Patriotic Coalition of CSOs Forum (KPCF), with membership of more than 310 organizations, has followed with deep concern recent reports of public discriminatory and demeaning remarks, as well as assault credited to Dr. Abdulsalami Kani against Mr. Michael Nworisa and two members of the community of Persons with Special Disabilities (PWDs) in Kano State.
DistaDistances itself completely from all discriminatory or inflammatory statements attributed to Dr. Abdulsalami Kani against some members of the civil society community in Kano.nces itself completely from all discriminatory or inflammatory statements attributed to Dr. Abdulsalami Kani against some members of the civil society community in Kano.
We wish to state clearly and unequivocally that the Kano Patriotic Coalition of CSOs Forum does not support, endorse, or condone any form of discrimination, ethnic profiling, intimidation, or verbal abuse against any individual or group, irrespective of origin, disability status, religion, opinion, or social background.
Civil society is built on the pillars of tolerance, respect for diversity, and solidarity. The strength of civic engagement lies not in rhetorics or public posturing, but in the everyday practice of humility, inclusiveness, and mutual respect. Any conduct that undermines these values contradicts the very essence of civil society activism and democratic culture.
We are particularly disturbed by the allegations that members of the PWD community were subjected to intimidation, harassment, and derogatory remarks. It should be noted that Persons with Special Disabilities are equal with all other citizens whose voices, opinions, and participation in public discourse must be respected and protected. Any attempt to silence or demean them is not only morally unacceptable but also inconsistent with Nigeria’s constitutional principles and international practices on inclusion and human rights.
We urge all civil society actors, scholars, activists, and opinion leaders to remember that leadership in civic space is measured not by titles or loud declarations, but by character, conduct, and respect for human dignity.
The Kano Patriotic Coalition of CSOs Forum remains committed to promoting unity, social justice, and democratic values in Kano State and beyond.
Signed:
Hassan Ibrahim Gama
Convener
Mustapha Muhammed Chiroma
Co-Convener I
Peter Hassan Tijjani
Co-Convener II