A major political scandal is unfolding in Kano as the state’s Commissioner for Transport, Ibrahim Namadi, has stepped forward to stand surety for an alleged drug kingpin, Sulaiman Aminu Danwawu, currently facing trial on serious drug trafficking charges.
The controversial move has sparked widespread criticism and raised questions about the relationship between political figures and suspected criminal networks.
According to court documents, Danwawu was granted bail by the Federal High Court in Kano under the following conditions:
- ₦3 million bail with one surety of the same amount
- Surety must be a serving Kano State commissioner
- Additional ₦5 million refundable deposit placed in an interest-yielding account
In compliance, Commissioner Namadi submitted an affidavit of means on July 18, 2025, swearing under oath to abide by all bail conditions and ensure the suspect appears in court for all hearings.
What the Commissioner Said Under Oath
“I am here to stand as surety for the Defendant in this case. I undertake to abide by the bail conditions and promise to produce the Defendant on adjournment date(s) until the case is finally disposed of,” the Commissioner declared in his sworn affidavit.
He also formally applied to the Deputy Chief Registrar of the court, stating his willingness to stand surety and fulfill all requirements laid out by the court order.
Who is Danwawu?
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) identified Sulaiman Aminu Danwawu as a long-time player in the illegal drug trade. In a statement issued by NDLEA PRO Sadiq Maigatari, Danwawu was described as the head of a drug trafficking network fueling addiction and insecurity in Kano and surrounding areas.
He was arrested at his home during a coordinated operation by the police and later transferred to NDLEA custody. A subsequent follow-up raid led to the seizure of additional illegal substances.
While the case continues, Commissioner Namadi’s decision to stand surety for a suspected trafficker has ignited public outrage, with many questioning how deeply political elites may be entangled in criminal operations.
Despite the bail being officially granted, the suspect remains remanded in a correctional facility pending the next court hearing.
What Was Submitted to Court?
A document titled ‘Notification for Fulfilment of Bail Conditions’ confirmed that the following were submitted:
- Application to stand surety
- Affidavit of means
- ₦5 million refundable deposit
- Passport photographs of the defendant and surety
The notification concluded that the bail conditions had been met and were awaiting judicial approval.
