Kano’s Only Female Governorship Candidate Pledges to Tackle Drug Abuse, Thuggery

Kano State’s only female governorship candidate, Furera Ahmad, has pledged to tackle drug abuse and thuggery among youths if elected in the forthcoming general election.

Ahmad, who is contesting under the platform of the Because Of Our Tomorrow (BOOT) Party, made the pledge during an interview in Kano on Wednesday.

She said her experience as a mother had given her an understanding of the challenges facing women, children and young people, particularly the growing concerns surrounding drug abuse and violent behaviour.

The candidate also criticised politicians who allegedly engage youths in thuggery during electioneering campaigns, sometimes under the influence of drugs.

“I will place priority on the plight of women, children and youths, especially on the issue of drug abuse and thuggery,” she said.

According to Ahmad, women are often better positioned to identify behavioural changes in their children early because of their close involvement in their upbringing.

She argued that greater female participation in politics could help address social problems affecting families and communities.

Ahmad expressed optimism about her chances in the election, saying she was receiving support from women and other groups.

She also urged Nigerians to reject vote buying and selling, warning that accepting money or food items in exchange for votes undermines citizens’ electoral rights.

“We should shun vote buying and selling our votes because of spaghetti, rice, and tokens. We should not sell our franchise,” she said.

The candidate further called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that the forthcoming elections are free, fair and credible, adding that the candidate who wins should be declared the winner.

Her remarks come amid ongoing concerns about drug abuse among young people and the use of political thugs during election campaigns in parts of the country.