Former governor of Kano State and leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has dismissed the threat made by his political rival, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje. Kwankwaso asserted that due to his political standing, Ganduje should not dare to disrespect him. The two politicians recently visited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu separately, with Kwankwaso confirming ongoing talks with Tinubu regarding potential involvement in his government.
In response to Ganduje’s threat to slap him if they had met at Aso Villa, Kwankwaso emphasized their political relationship, stating that Ganduje was one of his political protégés and could not even look at him directly in the face. Kwankwaso made these remarks during an interview with the BBC Hausa Service in Kano, expressing his confidence in his political influence.
Kwankwaso clarified that his discussions with President Bola Tinubu regarding potential involvement in his government were based on mutual consultation. He reassured that this did not imply his defection from the NNPP, and a public declaration of their resolve would be made within two weeks. Kwankwaso emphasized the importance of clarifying his position to avoid misconceptions.
During his conversation with President Bola Tinubu, Kwankwaso addressed the controversial issue of the demolition in Kano. He briefed Tinubu on the details of lands sold by the Ganduje administration to the public and assured him that measures were in place to address the issue. Tinubu expressed satisfaction with the explanations provided by Kwankwaso, as he discovered that the information relayed to him initially was false.
Kwankwaso reiterated his commitment to preserving sites designated for mosques, schools, and other similar purposes, regardless of the governor in power. He emphasized that constructing on such sites is unacceptable and that he would inform governors, including Ganduje or Abba, about this stance. The state government, through the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Baffa Bichi, has already instructed tenants in properties built on public spaces to evacuate as the demolition process continues.
Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso dismisses the threat made by Dr Abdullahi Ganduje and asserts his political influence. He clarifies his discussions with President Bola Tinubu regarding potential involvement in his government and emphasizes that this does not entail defection from the NNPP. Kwankwaso also addresses the demolition issue in Kano, briefing President Tinubu and reiterating his commitment to preserving designated sites. As the demolition process continues, tenants are urged to vacate properties built on public spaces.