Gov. Yusuf breaks silence on alleged ‘underwear empowerment’ during Remi Tinubu’s visit

Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has distanced himself from allegations that his administration empowered women with red underwear, saying the items were displayed without his knowledge or approval.

DAILY NIGERIAN reports that a group of young women were seen displaying red panties during a rally organised in honour of the First Lady, Remi Tinubu.

The chief campaigner, identified as Teema Cool, was also introduced to the first lady by the governor.

The pictures and videos quickly went viral over the weekend, with many social media users interpreting the spectacle as part of an empowerment programme.

Our reporter learnt that the underwears were actually displayed in a mocking gesture targeted at the governor’s former political godfather, Rabiu Kwankwaso. During the rally, the women reportedly chanted “Dankamfen Tsula,” a phrase widely understood to be a reference to Mr Kwankwaso.

Speaking at a special prayer session held at the Kano Government House, Mr Yusuf said he was unaware of the incident and described it as culturally and religiously inappropriate.

“You have heard what happened. We are here minding our business when someone reported to me that a group of young ladies had displayed something… The governor was unaware. I quit social media because of something like this. I would rather receive such information from someone,” he said.

“But we must condemn it because it is against our culture and also against the teachings of Islam.

“I got the story of what happened yesterday. And I immediately summoned the young women,” Mr Yusuf said.

The repentant underwear campaigners were seen reciting Holy Qur’an, invoking supplications and seeking repentance for the sin they committed.