CP Gumel receiving the award from the leadership of. Kano-LEADS

*Receives Emir of Kano’s commendation letter

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano

Kano state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Mohammed Usaini Gumel, has bagged the prestigious Kano Leadership, Enlightenment  and Advocacy for Development Initiative (LEADS)  award for his track records in crime busting.

The Board of Trustees (BoT) of Kano-LEADS, otherwise known as Daruwana, a Non Governmental Organization (NGO), presented the award to CP Gumel, during a dinner organized in honour of the Kano Chief Sherif on Saturday.

The dinner attended by prominent sons and daughters of Kano state was tagged: Kano Mungode.

Kano-LEADS appreciated CP Gumel’s  approach to policing, which they agreed has, so far yielded positive results on security of lives and property in Kano state.

In his remarks, Chairman of BoT,  Kano-LEADS, Alhaji Bashir M. Dalhatu (Wazirin Dutse), commended CP Gumel for his far-reaching efforts in crime-fighting.

He said Kano-LEADS was proud to celebrate and recognize the exceptional contributions of CP Gumel who has left an indelible mark on the security landscape of Kano State.

“We have all gathered here to pay tribute to a remarkable officer, a guardian of peace, and a true sentinel of security, CP Muhammed Hussaini Gumel. In a state as vast and populous as Kano, maintaining law and order is a monumental task.

‘The complexity of our diverse communities, the challenges posed by rapid urbanization, and the ever-evolving nature of security threats make the role of the Police a formidable one. Yet, it is in the face of these very challenges that CP Muhammed Gumel demonstrated his unparalleled expertise and commitment to duty.

‘Tnder his leadership, we have witnessed an innovative and effective approach to policing that has not only ensured the safety and security of our people but has also enhanced the overall quality of life in our beloved state. CP Gumel has tirelessly worked to strengthen the security architecture of Kano State.

“His ability to adapt to the changing dynamics of crime and his dedication to community engagement has been pivotal in creating a safer and more secure environment for all Kanawa. CP Gumel’s achievements are not merely a testament to his competence and dedication but also a reflection of his unwavering commitment to safeguarding the lives and properties of the Kano people,” he stated.

Wazirin Dutse further stated that:  “Today, as we come together as a community to honour CP Muhammed Gumel, we must remember that his work is not accomplished in isolation. It is the result of the collective dedication and hard work of the entire police force, the support of the government, and the cooperation of our people.

“Together, we have created a security environment that stands as an example for the entire nation. On behalf of Kano-LEADS and all the people of the State, I extend our deepest gratitude to CP Hussain Muhammad Gumel.

“His great service has inspired us, and your achievements remind us that with determination, innovation, and unity, we can overcome any challenge. As we celebrate your outstanding achievements, CP Gumel, we do so with profound respect and heartfelt appreciation.

“You have shown us that security is not just a job but a calling, and we are truly fortunate to have you as our Commissioner. May your legacy continue to inspire all those who serve our great state. Thank you, everyone, for joining us in this celebration of excellence and dedication to the security and well-being of Kano State.”

In her address, the President of Kano-LEADS, Hajiya Aisha I. Dankani eulogized CP Gumel for his dedication and show of patriotism in the discharge of his duties.

She said:  “Tonight, we gather here for a special dinner, an occasion that resonates with deep gratitude and admiration. We are here to celebrate the exceptional commitment of a man who has been at the forefront of ensuring the safety and well-being of the people of Kano State.

“In the face of towering challenges posed by safeguarding a state with an estimated 20 million residents, CP Gumel’s commitment to ensuring the safety of citizens is nothing short of extraordinary. Policing such a populace state is a task that can test the mettle of the most seasoned officers. Yet, it’s through his unrelenting efforts, innovative approaches and sheer determination that made him achieve the feet we are celebrating this evening.

“Today, it is with great pleasure that Kano-LEADS has chosen to honour CP Muhammed Hussaini Gumel for a number of reasons, and two stand out among them as exceptional demonstrations of his visionary leadership. First, the Commissioner’s initiative in converting 50 repentant thugs into police special constabulary out of the 222 rehabilitated earlier by the force stands as a beacon of transformation.”

According to her, “these individuals, once involved in criminal activities, have turned their lives around and pledged to be agents of peace and security. This transformation fostered under the Commissioner’s guidance, has been a crucial step towards ridding our beloved state of the menace of thuggery and associated social vices. Secondly, CP Gumel has championed the cause of community policing.

“Under his stewardship, we have witnessed a significant enhancement in the bond between the police and Kano communities. This strengthened partnership has not only enhanced security but has also paved the way for shared responsibility and trust, which are the pillars of a safer and more harmonious Kano. Going forward, Kano-LEADS urges CP Gumel to prioritize tackling the rising cases of rape in our communities.

“This is an issue that deeply disturbs us all. Furthermore, the proliferation of drugs and substance abuse among our youths (The future of Kano) demands immediate attention. These challenges are not insurmountable, and together with the police force, we can work towards lasting solutions.

“In addition, Kano-LEADS extends an open hand to the Commissioner and his team, offering unwavering support and collaboration in overcoming these challenges and many more as they arise. We firmly believe that by working together, we can build a safer, more prosperous, and more harmonious Kano for all its residents. Ladies and gentlemen, as we celebrate CP Muhammed Usaini Gumel tonight, let us remember that it is through unity and collaboration that we can achieve our shared vision of a peaceful and secure Kano State. Thank you all for joining us on this special evening.”

In his remark, the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero,  commended Kano LEADS for taking the lead in identifying and honoring CP Gumel, who the Emir said, has positively transformed the policing architecture of Kano state through the employment of citizens-led policing approach.

The First Class monarch, expressed joy that Kano is a beneficiary of  CP Gumel’s policing attributes that include professionalism, application of wisdom and steadfastness in crime prevention, management and control.

In his response, the award recipient, CP  Gumel, expressed gratitude to Kano-LEADS for appreciating hardwork and excellence.

He said: “First I am starting by showing gratitude to Almighty Allah for keeping us safe and today we are here to celebrate this moment that will ever remain in my mind.

“I most appreciate everyone’s commitment towards making this event a reality. Of course, while speaking in my mother tongue I said that Kano is our home, we must stand up and protect the integrity of Kano State, and we must come together to see that social vices and crimes are pushed to the wall.

“This is the commitment that when I assumed office I promised our personnel that we are going to operate under three pillars; Open door policing, zero tolerance for corruption and professionalism. Also this aspect of transformation of youths who were into crime or were used by someone for the commission of crime, we try to reform them in the best way that the law of the land permits.

“The Special Constabulary you saw been inaugurated, fifty (50) of them are volunteers after helping us. They have no criminal records in any of our Divisions. From the first day of my inspection when I was on the Dala Hills, I only invited them after consultation with the stakeholders and members of the community from the eight (8) LGAs within Kano Metropolis.

“They gave me the names of these people as the influencers that normally mobilize these youths. So they have control over these youths. I invited them and they came. After having a dialogue with them, they surrendered and told us that they were going to bring those youths they had been using.

“They are the ones that brought the other number that completed two hundred and twenty-two (222) in the State. Those one hundred and seventy-two whose names are already before His Excellency, the Executive Governor are going to be trained in skills acquisition and give them take-up grand to start changing their lives. But the 50 people who decided to work with us because they know the nooks and crannies where these evils are perpetrated.

” They agreed that they would volunteer and work as Constabularies. Constabularies are under the Police Act and Regulations and it permit Commissioners of Police to mobilize people of good character to join.

“The day they were presented to His Excellency so many people preached words of wisdom and the words of the Almighty to them and they also promised never to go back to that bad life today. We are watching them, everybody has seen how Kano is safe now and we are confident that Kano will continue to be safe. I thank everybody and wish everyone a safe return home.”

Similarly, the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, CFR in a letter presented to the Police Command with reference number KEC/ADM/52/T.5 dated 16th October 2023, signed by the Secretary, Kano Emirate Council, Alhaji Abba Yusuf, His Royal Highnesses, the Emir expressed his strong support and commended the crime control efforts of the Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Usaini Gumel and all the personnel of Kano State Police Command they are making towards maintaining law and order in the State.

The letter also partly reads: “His Highness is especially pleased with the efforts of the police in curbing the menace of indiscriminate and perilous horse-riding activities within the alleyways and back streets of our cities by some individuals and groups, putting the safety and security of everyone at grievous risk.”