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By Correspondent in Kano.
A prominent Kano politician and grassroots mobilizer, Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo, has stirred fresh debate over accountability and redemption in Nigeria’s political space, declaring that the pardon of accused politicians reflects a “healthy political evolution” capable of strengthening democratic governance.
Garo, a former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs under the administration of Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, made the remarks while responding to allegations linking him to financial impropriety during his time in office.
Speaking with journalists in Kano, recently,the politician,popularly known as MSG,insisted that Nigeria’s legal and political systems rightly allow for forgiveness and reintegration of politicians who have either been cleared by the courts or granted pardon by the state.
According to him, such individuals often return with renewed commitment and experience that can enrich governance and deepen democracy.
“This is part of democratic maturity. Repentant and forgiven politicians should not be permanently excluded. They can still contribute meaningfully to national development,”Garo said.
His comments come amid lingering accusations that he was involved in the diversion of public funds while serving in the Ganduje administration,claims he strongly refuted, describing them as politically motivated attempts to tarnish his reputation and derail his rising political influence.
Garo maintained that the allegations have effectively collapsed under constitutional scrutiny, stressing that he remains innocent in the eyes of the law.
“In Nigeria, the law is clear,every accused person is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court.
“What I faced was largely a media trial, which runs contrary to established legal principles,”he stated.
The politician further clarified that the allegations were not directly filed against him as an individual but involved a group of suspects, adding that the Kano State Government,the purported complainant,has shown no willingness to pursue prosecution against him.
“Even where a charge was brought, the court dismissed it, and the state government chose the path of forgiveness,” he added.
Drawing parallels with other political figures, Garo cited cases such as Faruk Lawan and Alhaji Aminu Dabo, a former Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, who he said were similarly pardoned and have since remained active in Nigeria’s political landscape.
The former deputy governorship candidate also defended his track record in office, claiming that local government administration in Kano witnessed “phenomenal development” during his tenure as commissioner.
Garo urged the people of Kano State and the wider public to disregard what he described as malicious allegations against him, reaffirming his commitment to public service.
“I stand on the side of the law and the truth. My conscience is clear, and my record speaks for itself,”he said.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
