Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has issued a stern warning to political actors and individuals spreading misinformation capable of destabilising the state, declaring that his administration will take firm legal action against anyone attempting to incite crisis.

The governor made the statement during an Iftar dinner with heads of security agencies in Kaduna, where discussions centred on maintaining peace and stability in the state as the political season approaches.

Sani emphasised that Kaduna remains a sensitive and diverse state with multiple ethnic and religious communities, stressing that responsible leadership and public communication are necessary to sustain the fragile peace.

According to him, criticism from opposition parties is part of democratic practice, but spreading rumours and false information under the guise of freedom of speech will not be tolerated.

“Some individuals sit comfortably in their homes and spread rumours on social media. Freedom of speech must not be used as a license to create unrest or endanger lives and property,” the governor warned.

He further stated that individuals or groups he described as “conflict merchants” who attempt to disrupt the peace in Kaduna for political advantage would face the full weight of the law.

The governor also reminded security agencies that political activities are expected to intensify soon as party primaries approach, following the election timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

Primaries are expected to take place between April and May, a period the governor believes could trigger political tensions, especially among aspirants who may attempt to manipulate public narratives after losing internal contests.

Sani cautioned that some politicians might try to play the victim by spreading misinformation to create confusion or provoke unrest.

To prevent this, he urged stronger collaboration among security agencies, local government officials, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to improve grassroots intelligence gathering and early conflict detection.

The governor commended security chiefs for their cooperation with his administration, noting that Kaduna has not experienced any ethno-religious crisis since he assumed office.

However, he acknowledged that security challenges such as banditry and kidnapping remain concerns, assuring residents that his government remains open to strategies that will further strengthen safety and stability across the state.