Drug Baron’s Bail: Rights Group Defends Kano Commissioner’s Bail Action, Faults State Probe Committee
By Salisu Hamisu Ali
A human rights organization, Rule of Law and Justice Advancement Network, has defended the actions of Kano State Commissioner for Transport, Ibrahim Namadi, over his role in standing as surety for an alleged drug dealer, Sulaiman Danwawu.
Speaking at a press briefing in Kano on Monday, the Executive Director of the group, Barrister Ali Jamilu, stated that under Nigerian law, the commissioner has the legal right to stand as surety for any accused person.
Jamilu criticized the Kano State Government’s decision to set up a committee to investigate the commissioner’s action, describing it as unnecessary and legally questionable.
He also condemned the reaction of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Kano Branch, which reportedly opposed the commissioner’s involvement in the bail process. According to him, such interference undermines the principle of justice, especially since the matter is already before a court of law.
“We want to educate the public on the legal implications of the current situation and the ongoing public discourse, especially on social media,” Jamilu said. “This issue has emotional consequences and could set a dangerous precedent if not handled properly.”
The lawyer emphasized that in the eyes of the law, every accused person is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court.
He added that the commissioner acted within his legal rights and that public sentiments should not override due process.
Jamilu urged the government and the public to respect the rule of law and ensure that justice is not compromised by mob opinion or political pressure.
The group also called for the protection of the commissioner’s constitutional right to stand surety, insisting that justice and legal procedures must prevail.
