The Kano State House of Assembly has referred Yusuf Bello Aliyu, a lawmaker representing Nasarawa constituency, to its Committee on Ethics and Privileges over a social media post allegedly mocking Governor Abba Yusuf.
The Assembly took the decision after Abdulhamid Abdul, who represents Minjibir constituency, raised a motion during Tuesday’s plenary presided over by Speaker Ismail Falgore.
Abdul drew the lawmakers’ attention to a viral post that allegedly showed Aliyu holding a rabbit by its ears while making comments considered offensive to the governor.
He asked the House to investigate the incident and determine whether the lawmaker breached the standards expected of elected representatives.
Abdul also called for an apology and appropriate disciplinary action if the allegations were established.
Lawmakers raise concerns over social media conduct
Supporting the motion, Musa Kachako, who represents Takai constituency, said the controversy raised concerns about how public officials use social media.
He urged the Assembly to consider legal measures to address abusive online content. He also stressed that lawmakers should communicate responsibly on digital platforms.
Meanwhile, Sulaiman Mukhtar, who represents Madobi constituency, and Usman Abubakar Tasiu, who represents Kiru constituency, also backed the motion.
They argued that political disagreements should not justify conduct perceived as disrespectful.
The referral will allow the Committee on Ethics and Privileges to examine the matter and consider whether Aliyu’s conduct warrants further action. However, the allegations remain subject to the committee’s review. The Assembly’s decision to refer the matter does not, by itself, establish that the lawmaker committed an offence.
The development places the social media post under the Assembly’s disciplinary process as lawmakers consider the standards expected of members.
