Former Kwankwasiyya scholar cites need for independence, public confidence
By Rimawaglobalnews Correspondent
Kano | January 25, 2026
The Kano State Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Yusuf Ibrahim Kofarmata, has resigned his appointment and withdrawn from the State Executive Council, citing rising political tensions and concerns over maintaining independence in office.
In a resignation letter dated January 25, 2026, addressed to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, Kofarmata explained that the prevailing political climate in the state could cast doubt on his objectivity if he remained in office.
According to him, the increasing expectations of political loyalty and allegiance were incompatible with the impartiality required of a commissioner, stressing that stepping aside was necessary to protect the integrity of the office.
“The integrity of the State Commissioner’s role rests on the ability to act without undue influence, partisan pressure, or divided allegiance,” he stated.
Kofarmata, who hails from Zango Ward in Kano Municipal Local Government Area, said his decision was also aimed at preserving public confidence in government institutions and upholding his personal commitment to ethical public service.
He thanked Governor Yusuf for the opportunity to serve in different capacities, noting that he contributed to policy reforms and development initiatives during his tenure.
“I sincerely hope that my resignation will help preserve my image and public confidence in the institution and allow it to function without question or constraint,” he added.
The resignation comes against the backdrop of ongoing political realignments and heightened tension within Kano State’s political landscape.
As of the time of filing this report, the Kano State Government had not issued an official response, although the resignation letter was confirmed to have been formally received.
Reports indicate that Kofarmata is a staunch supporter of the Kwankwasiyya movement led by Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and a beneficiary of the Kwankwaso foreign scholarship scheme to PhD level. He was appointed into the State Executive Council as a nominee of the Kwankwasiyya scholars.
He initially served as Commissioner for Higher Education before being redeployed to the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, where he remained until his resignation.
Political observers note that despite the unfolding NNPP–APC defection moves, Kofarmata maintained his allegiance to Kwankwaso and did not defect from the NNPP, a stance believed to have influenced his decision to step down.
