Governor Abba Yusuf has condemned the conduct of some women who displayed red undergarments during a visit by Nigeria’s first lady Oluremi Tinubu, describing the act as disgraceful and contrary to the state’s values.
A group of women known as the Gida Gida TikTokers had gathered to welcome the first lady to Kano on April 23.
The women, led by TikToker Teema Cool, displayed red panties in what was seen as a gesture aimed at mocking former governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, whose political movement is associated with a red cap.
Images from the event were later manipulated to place the governor’s face on the underwear, suggesting they were government-branded items.
Speaking at a prayer session at the Kano Government House attended by 4,444 Qur’anic reciters, Yusuf said he was not aware of the incident at the time.
“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.
He said the act was against the teachings of Islam, which promote modesty, discipline and respect for authority.
“Our youths should be symbols of hope and development, not tools for mockery or moral decadence,” Yusuf said.
“I urge my fellow politicians to lead by example, cease the culture of insults, and focus on the Kano First Agenda rather than inciting our children toward indecency,” he added.
The governor said those involved should seek forgiveness and apologise to the people of Kano for the incident.
He also warned politicians against using young people for actions that could harm the moral values of society.
Yusuf said his administration remains committed to youth development, discipline and the preservation of Kano’s cultural heritage.
The women later took part in Qur’anic recitation, offering prayers and seeking forgiveness for their actions.
