In an effort to alleviate tensions arising from the recent demolition of buildings in Kano by the state government, President Bola Tinubu has called for a meeting with former governors Rabiu Kwankwaso and Abdullahi Ganduje. The President held separate meetings with the two former governors at the Presidential Villa on Friday evening.
Speaking to State House correspondents after the meeting, Ganduje described the demolition in Kano, carried out by Governor Abba Yusuf, as “illegal.” He expressed his distress over the lack of due process and investigation in the demolition, stating that it violated the provisions of the Land Use Act. Ganduje also accused Governor Yusuf of being a stooge of Kwankwaso.
The structures demolished in the recent incident include Haji camp, Daula Hotel, and shopping complexes around the Eid Prayer Ground in Kano. Ganduje argued that these structures were developed under Public-Private Partnerships and called for an investigation into their demolition. He expressed concern about the security situation in Kano and the potential for religious or tribal conflict.
Ganduje blamed his former boss, Kwankwaso, for directing the new administration under Yusuf to carry out what he perceived as a vengeful campaign against the previous administration. He highlighted the demolition of a shopping complex near the new Daula Hotel, which was approved by the state’s executive under a Public-Private Partnership arrangement. Ganduje emphasized that the issue is currently in court.
On the other hand, Kwankwaso claimed that most of the demolished buildings were illegally acquired by the Ganduje administration. He stated that their party had pledged to demolish such structures during their campaign.
Regarding speculations about accepting a ministerial position from the Tinubu administration, Kwankwaso confirmed ongoing discussions but dismissed rumors of defecting to the ruling party. He emphasized that Tinubu’s focus is on a government of national unity.