The Kano Patriotic Coalition of Civil Society Organisations Forum (KPCF) has dissociated itself from alleged discriminatory remarks and acts of intimidation credited to Dr. Abdussalam Kani against members of the Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) community in Kano State.
In a statement jointly signed by its Convener, Hassan Ibrahim Gama, Co-Convener I, Mustapha Muhammed Chiroma, and Peter Hassan Tijjani, the coalition—comprising over 310 civil society organisations—said it followed recent reports of the incident with deep concern.
The coalition clarified that it does not support, endorse, or condone any form of discrimination, ethnic profiling, intimidation, or verbal abuse against any individual or group, regardless of origin, disability status, religion, opinion, or social background.
READ ALSO: Retract Your Utterances Against PWDs Now, Persons with Disabilities Tell Abdusalam Kani
According to the statement, civil society engagement is founded on tolerance, respect for diversity, and solidarity, noting that any conduct that undermines these values contradicts the core principles of civic activism and democratic culture.
KPCF expressed particular concern over allegations that members of the PWD community were subjected to intimidation, harassment, and derogatory remarks, stressing that persons with disabilities are equal citizens whose voices and participation in public discourse must be respected and protected.
“Any attempt to silence or demean persons with disabilities is morally unacceptable and inconsistent with Nigeria’s constitutional provisions and international standards on inclusion and human rights,” the coalition stated.
The forum further announced that it has completely distanced itself from all discriminatory or inflammatory statements allegedly attributed to Dr. Abdussalam Kani, while expressing solidarity with Mr. Michael Nworisa and members of the PWD community affected by the incident.
It also called for civility, restraint, and accountability in civic and political engagements across Kano State, while reaffirming its commitment to inclusive, respectful, and peaceful civic participation for all residents of the state, regardless of background or physical ability.
The coalition reiterated its readiness to continue working with the Kano State Government across various sectors of human development through collaboration and partnership, describing itself as a partner in progress and development.
KPCF urged civil society actors, scholars, activists, and opinion leaders to uphold values of character, humility, and respect for human dignity, noting that leadership in the civic space should be measured by conduct rather than titles or rhetoric.
The forum reaffirmed its commitment to promoting unity, social justice, and democratic values in Kano State and beyond