Olushola Omogbehin
The viral video that Kano State Government distributed pants to women as empowerment and campaign gifts, has been seen as a mere fabrication to score political goal.
The story started spreading online on Friday, showing women’s pants printed with the image of governor Yusuf displayed prominently on it.
Due to the sensitivity of the allegation and the current political atmosphere of the State, Daily Trust conducted a verification that revealed that the images were digitally altered and misrepresented.
Forensic analysis detected inconsistencies in the photos, particularly unusual brightness patterns around the underwear, indicating manipulation.
Further investigation disclosed that the image of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf was inserted into the pictures to create the impression that he personally distributed the items.
According to investigation, the images were traced to a viral video involving supporters of the governor, known as “Gida-Gida TikTokers,” recorded during the visit of the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, to Kano.
As the Authenticity of this news has generated debate across the state with some critics directed their anger at the governor and his supporters, others have questioned whether the materials were genuine or possibly fabricated to damage his reputation.
There are also speculations that political opponents could be responsible for spreading the photos so as to discredit him ahead of future elections.
Already, supporters of Governor Yusuf have denied their connection and that of the state government with the video.
According to them, there is no official campaign team or government agency has announced or endorsed such an initiative.
Warning against the spread of such unverified information, they said that such claims could inflame political tensions in Kano.
Political analysts within and beyond the state have said that such controversies are common in Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly as 2027 election draws near.
Nigerians are now awaiting an official clarification that could either confirm or debunk the allegations.
