Five months after Abdulmalik Tanko, a school teacher, was sentenced to death for the murder of five-year-old Hanifa Abubakar in Kano, Governor Abba Yusuf has pledged to ensure the execution of the convict.
Speaking at an event to commemorate the 2024 International Children’s Day in Kano on Monday, the governor emphasized the importance of carrying out the court’s sentence.
Tanko, along with his accomplice Hashimu Ishyaku, was sentenced to death by hanging by a Kano State High Court after being found guilty of Hanifa’s murder.
Governor Yusuf stated that executing the convicted murderers would serve as a strong deterrent to others who might consider committing crimes against children.
The governor also announced plans to declare a ‘state of emergency on education’ in Kano.
This initiative aims to provide a comprehensive approach to improving the state’s educational system, including free education and the renovation of deteriorating school infrastructure. The goal is to ensure high-quality education for all children in the state.
Governor Yusuf further promised that free school meals and uniforms would soon be provided for children in primary grades one to three.
These measures are part of a broader effort to support young students and encourage school attendance.
Additionally, Hajiya Aisha Lawan, the State’s Commissioner for Women, Children, and Disabled, praised the governor for his initiatives, which include free education for primary and secondary students and a 50 percent reduction in tuition fees for tertiary students.
During the event, Hauwa Ibrahim, the Speaker of the Children’s Parliament in Kano State, urged the state government to implement the Child Right Act to ensure the wellbeing of children in the region.
