Opinion
How Ganduje hired fake NGO to rate Kano low in an attempt to cover his wasted 8 years
By Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa
Our attention has been drawn to an article entitled “Kano worst governed, least performing state in Nigeria – Report,” authored by Taofeek Lawal and featured on Tribune online on April 23, 2024.
Taofeek based his narrative on an alleged report by the Centre for Democracy and Human Rights (CEDEHUR), which maliciously portrays Kano State as the most poorly governed and underperforming state in the nation since the inception of the new administration in May 2023.
Available records at both internet and CAC, confirmed that the NGO is not registered and in last few years of its illigal operation, it has engaged itself on various dubious and controvercial activities serving as a hired street dog.
Ganduje and his co-travellers who promote corruption are hiring fake NGOs who hide behind promoting good governance to share none existing reseaches in an attempt to damage the hard earned reputation of the arguably best performing governor in the 2023 new breeds of governors His Excellency Alh. Abba Kabir Yusuf.
The former Governor of Kano state who did nothing in his eight year wasted tenure between 2015 and 2023 other than promoting political violence through hiring of thugs to distroy, miame, injure or kill innocent citizens.
“No matter the cover up, Ganduje must face the consequencies of his utterances during which he governed Kano recklessly, with nepotism, corruption and impunity as guiding principles”
As it is well known, performance evaluation is done using specific parametres against indicators which the so called NGO did not anyway meet the requirememt for rating the performance of any governor against another. Thefore, we wish to dismiss in totality and declare the purported report as fake, malicious and ill intended to cover Ganduje’s failure to make Kano great.
Initially, we contemplated dismissing the report due to the questionable nature of the individuals associated with CEDEHUR.
However, upon further reflection, we opted to respond to prevent discerning Nigerians from being misled by the fabricated falsehoods propagated by dubious figures within CEDEHUR, who, in collaboration with the opposition and their backers, are engaged in a futile attempt to discredit the effective governance of His Excellency, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf.
Undoubtedly, the report from CEDEHUR is not simply a piece of refuse; it is built upon malevolent, contrived, and unfounded information and misinformation sourced from the so-called “stakeholders” who were commissioned to distort truths and denigrate Governor Yusuf’s administration.
Despite the global recognition of the ongoing socio-economic transformation in Kano, spanning various sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, and human development, it is evident that the members of CEDEHUR did not physically inspect Kano to ascertain the situation first-hand.
Instead, they chose to consort with politicians in Abuja and fabricate falsehoods for public consumption, following the exchange of monetary incentives.
I strongly urge Nigerians to disregard CEDEHUR and their web of deceit, as Governor Yusuf has achieved within a year what the previous administration and the sponsors of CEDEHUR failed to accomplish in eight years.
I challenge Ambassador Adebayo Lion Ogorry, who represented CEDEHUR at a Press Conference in Abuja aimed at tarnishing Governor Yusuf’s administration, to provide tangible evidence of any lack of transparency and accountability in the Kano state government under Governor Yusuf’s leadership.
On the contrary, Kano has maintained its reputation as one of the least corrupt states in Nigeria, with a renewed commitment to combating corruption through the revamped Kano State anti-corruption agency.
Furthermore, I challenge CEDEHUR to identify any political appointee in Governor Yusuf’s cabinet who is undeserving of their role—there is unequivocally none.
While the case of Mustapha Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, the Honourable Commissioner of Youths and Sports, may be raised, Governor Yusuf has consistently emphasized that Mustapha’s appointment was based entirely on merit: his unwavering party loyalty, youthfulness, dynamism, intelligence, and qualifications make him apt for the Ministry.
The concept of political vendetta from CEDEHR eludes me, but I am convinced that no conscientious and responsive government would permit the extensive corruption perpetrated by the previous administration to go unpunished.
We will in our endeavours to recover public assets and the billions of Naira embezzled by the prior administration.
Allow me to elucidate on some of the notable accomplishments of Governor Yusuf’s administration for archival purposes.
Infrastructure Development
Governor Yusuf, in the latter part of the previous year, inaugurated the N27 billion Interchange projects aimed at alleviating traffic congestion in the heart of Kano city.
These projects include the Tal’udu interchange, featuring a cloverleaf flyover valued at N12 billion, and the Dan Agundi interchange, comprising a flyover and underpass estimated at N15 billion.
During the foundation stone laying ceremony, Governor Yusuf underscored the significance of these pivotal initiatives in addressing traffic congestion, enhancing transportation efficiency, beautifying the cityscape, reducing pollution, and fortifying the city’s infrastructure.
Governor Yusuf reiterated his administration’s dedication to advancing state infrastructure and expressed a firm resolve to deliver more equitable dividends, particularly to the marginalized segments of society.
He emphasized that Kano, as a burgeoning metropolis, necessitates substantial infrastructural enhancements to cater to its over 10 million urban denizens and uplift the socio-economic well-being of its inhabitants.
Governor Yusuf underscored that the 2024 budget, which he ratified, prioritizes capital projects, allocating a substantial 60% share to this crucial sector.
The impact of the flyover construction in mitigating traffic congestion has been evaluated in terms of traffic decongestion, time savings, fuel efficiency, and emission reduction.
Studies have confirmed that utilizing the flyover results in a notable 60 to 70 percent reduction in travel time compared to using the main road, particularly when traffic signals are predominantly red.
The savings in fuel consumption and associated costs accrued from waiting for signal changes are also significant.
The approval by the Kano State government for the construction of two new underpasses and flyovers has been welcomed by the city’s residents, where chronic traffic congestion has posed a social and environmental challenge.
Kano, being the most populous state in the country with approximately 100,000 registered commercial tricycles plying the roads daily, faces a congestion crisis exacerbated by the presence of cars, commercial tricycles, and motorcycles notorious for their impatience.
The primary objective behind the construction of these two Interchanges is to alleviate congestion at the bustling junctions, facilitate smoother traffic flow, stimulate commercial activities, and bolster the overall economic growth of the state.
The government has taken note of the public’s enthusiastic reception towards the planned construction of these two interchanges.
While a few individuals may lack comprehensive information regarding the rationale behind the government’s pursuit of these vital projects, the administration under Governor Yusuf’s leadership has demonstrated a paradigm shift in its approach to project execution, emphasizing probity, accountability, and transparency.
Governor Yusuf’s administration assures the public and the citizens of Kano State of the timely completion of these two projects and the initiation of additional public-centric and developmental projects in both rural and urban areas to enhance the general welfare of the populace and foster comprehensive development across all sectors, in fulfilment of its electoral pledges.
Agricultural Transformation
Undoubtedly, agriculture stands as the cornerstone of the economies of most nations across Sub-Saharan Africa, significantly contributing to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and serving as the primary employer for over two-thirds of the population on the continent.
The economic, environmental, and social prosperity of a country is intricately linked to the vitality of its agricultural sector.
Augmented agricultural investments can yield substantial developmental benefits, including bolstering rural incomes, enhancing food security, providing affordable and nutritious sustenance to Africa’s burgeoning populace, and promoting environmental sustainability through innovations like climate-smart agriculture.
On October 10, 2023, at the Coronation Hall in Kano, the Kano state government, in partnership with the African Enterprise Challenge Fund (AECF), extended opportunities to women in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and women cooperatives in Kano to engage in agriculture and earn a livelihood.
The program provided financial support to businesses in the form of performance-based grants, with a particular focus on empowering vulnerable groups such as youth, women, and those residing in fragile contexts.
The initiative also underscored the imperative of augmenting women’s participation across various agricultural value chains. Governor Yusuf’s administration remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering women in agriculture, recognizing the pivotal role they play in enhancing the state’s economic landscape, given Kano’s status as a prominent commercial hub.
Governor Yusuf has consistently affirmed that the state will collaborate closely with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture to ensure that farmers in rural areas, especially women and youth, receive adequate support.
These ongoing projects exemplify how Governor Yusuf’s administration is leveraging agriculture to empower rural dwellers, particularly women and youth.
Grazing reserve development
The grazing reserve at Donsoshiya, Kiru Local Government is presently undergoing development, intending to plant 3000 hectares of grass.
Currently, about 324.3 hectares of grass have been sown. Contractors have been mobilized to construct schools, veterinary clinics, markets, hospitals, livestock loading ramps, dams, and other essential socio-infrastructural facilities to facilitate pastoralists in their day-to-day activities.
The primary objective of this initiative is to settle pastoralists at the reserve, thereby curbing uncontrolled movement, which has historically led to conflicts between farmers and herders.
Large scale (Commercial) fodder herders
The large-scale (commercial) fodder production project aims to graze approximately 1000 hectares. The process of selecting participants/beneficiaries is ongoing.
The project intends to promote commercial fodder production, enabling increased access to feed for livestock.
Commercial fodder farmers will invest in fodder production as entrepreneurs, and they will receive support in the form of baling equipment and capacity building.
Improving animal health care
In the realm of animal health services, around 220 unemployed youths with relevant qualifications in animal health have been engaged. These individuals have been trained and empowered to provide private para-veterinary services in the 44 Local Government Areas of the state, serving as Community Animal Health Workers.
They also aid in the conduct of animal livestock vaccination exercises.
Veterinary reference laboratory
The Governor Yusuf administration has established a Veterinary Clinic in Gwale Local Government Area, known as the Gwale Veterinary Clinic. This facility provides referral services, drugs, vaccines, test services, and research into livestock diseases.
It operates in close partnership with the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bayero University, Kano (BUK).
Breed improvement
The state government has upgraded the Kadawa Artificial Insemination Centre, renovating the facility and providing state-of-the-art equipment.
Additionally, five purebred bulls were procured for semen collection, and the staff of the Centre were trained.
The Centre is expected to provide comprehensive services to 25,000 cows annually.
Demarcation of livestock routes
To address conflicts between farmers and herders, the state government has embarked on the demarcation of approximately 1,950km of livestock routes.
Survey, demarcation, and monumentation of these routes have commenced, with contractors already on site handling the development.
The initiative aims to reduce conflicts between farmers and pastoralists, with 30% progress reported thus far.
Furthermore, plans are underway to increase access for over 2000 farmers to engage in large-scale cultivation of crops three times a year, along with the creation of additional downstream jobs for youths and women in rural communities.
This project targets the development and irrigation of about 1000 hectares of land through the Watari dam irrigation expansion scheme.
Sasakawa cereal crops vale chain intervention
The Sasakawa Cereal Crops Value Chain Intervention aims to teach farmers how to utilize technology to expand cultivation and production of crops.
The project targets the empowerment of 450,000 farmers, with approximately 366,000 farmers already selected to benefit from the initiative.
It focuses on training farmers in modern technologies for rice, maize, millet, sorghum, tomatoes, onions, and cabbage crops production, and supports youths and women in establishing and improving agro-processing centres.
Similarly, the KNARDA legumes crops value chain project aims to empower about 100,000 farmers, with 55,000 already enrolled.
This technology-based project focuses on training farmers in new technologies for the massive production of groundnut, cowpea, and soybean crops.
Governor Yusuf’s administration has prioritized youth empowerment and skills development by reviving 26 Skill Acquisition Training Institutes across the state.
Plans are in place for training and admission into these Institutes, with graduates empowered with capital to start their own businesses.
Moreover, the administration has launched an empowerment programme targeting over 4,840 youths, women, and persons living with disabilities across the 44 Local Government Areas of the state.
This programme is designed to train beneficiaries in various skills and provide them with capital to start their own businesses. Additionally, plans are underway to introduce the Amana taxis and buses scheme to engage youths and upgrade the status of tricycle riders.
Furthermore, over 650 repentant influential youths (Yan Daba’s) have been offered amnesty and engaged in various empowerment and skills initiatives, fostering economic independence and contributing positively to the state and the country at large.
Education
In the realm of education, Governor Yusuf’s administration has achieved remarkable success, particularly in ensuring access to high-quality education for those residing in rural areas.
In addition to providing free and high-quality education for our primary and secondary school children, the administration has distributed complimentary exercise books, school uniforms, and other educational materials worth millions of Naira, with the greatest beneficiaries being children in rural areas.
Furthermore, the state government has covered the tuition, feeding, and accommodation expenses of 1001 postgraduate students studying in India, with a significant number of these beneficiaries hailing from rural regions.
The administration has also undertaken the payment of examination fees for 57,000 students sitting for WAEC and NECO, as well as settling tuition fees for 7000 students at Bayero University, Kano (BUK).
Kano indigenes now receive a 50% discount on their fees, and the state has established 26 skill acquisition institutes to train and empower youths across all 44 Local Government Areas.
Moreover, the Governor’s administration has procured and distributed educational support materials to over 9000 schools, benefiting more than three million pupils, with a substantial proportion of recipients coming from rural communities.
Governor Yusuf’s administration swiftly took action to reopen Islamic Studies Schools, Technical Colleges, Skills Acquisition Centres, and Boarding Schools located in rural areas that were previously closed down by the previous administration, all within a span of less than seven months.
Healthcare facilities
In the healthcare sector, the Kano state government, under Governor Yusuf’s leadership, is revitalizing the health system, aligning with his campaign promises to enhance healthcare services, especially for rural residents.
Inheriting a deficient healthcare system, Governor Yusuf wasted no time in restoring hope for the populace regarding adequate healthcare delivery, particularly for children, nursing mothers, and others across the state.
Notably, the Governor has instituted free maternity services for women in the state and distributed medical supplies worth over N53 million to various health facilities, benefiting pregnant women and those requiring assisted delivery.
The state government pledges to continue providing free health commodities throughout Governor Yusuf’s tenure.
Governor Yusuf fulfilled his promise to restore the Hasiya Bayero Pediatric Hospital, the only pediatric facility in the state with an 86-bed capacity, catering to thousands of patients daily.
Through medical outreach programs, the Ministry of Health has been directed to reach underserved rural areas where healthcare services are lacking, providing free consultations for minor ailments and referring patients to specialized hospitals for more severe conditions.
Recognizing the healthcare personnel, Governor Yusuf initiated the recruitment of additional doctors and nurses in rural communities to enhance healthcare provision.
The state government is constructing one primary health centre in each political ward across the 44 Local Government Areas and has established a committee to assess the immediate needs of health facilities for rehabilitation.
Efforts are also underway to identify areas requiring primary healthcare centres urgent attention.
In conclusion, I wish to inform the esteemed citizens of Kano State about the ongoing dialogues with both local and foreign investors aimed at bolstering the state’s economy by harnessing its natural resources and economic potentials.
The state government has finalized plans to fortify the Kano Hydro Electricity Company to boost revenue generation. Governor Yusuf has conducted a comprehensive review of the state’s Internally Generated Revenue management, leading to the establishment of the IGR Standing Committee to ensure robust revenue generation.
Furthermore, Governor Yusuf has instituted the State Gross Domestic Product (GDP) under the auspices of the Kano State Bureau of Statistics.
The Bureau of Statistics has been reinforced to provide monthly reports on inflation rates and the consumer price index, fostering accelerated economic progress.
Governor Yusuf has instructed the Kano State Bureau of Statistics to update the Social Register to facilitate comprehensive data collection of residents and citizens, enabling the equitable distribution of democratic dividends among the burgeoning population of Kano State.
In his commitment to the advancement of Kano State and its populace, Governor Yusuf has expedited the enactment of “The Restoration and Transformation Budget,” ensured timely disbursement of civil servants’ salaries and pensions, expedited file processing, adopted a zero-tolerance stance towards corruption, disbursed retirement benefits, reinstated REMASAB, revamped the Civil Service system, and plugged revenue leakages.
These measures were implemented to uphold fiscal governance, quality governance, and institutional efficacy within the Civil Service system. Additionally, the Governor’s administration has reopened the Kiru Reformatory Institute, recruited over 2,600 security personnel, provided support and logistics to the police and other security agencies to bolster security of lives and property state-wide.
The government has introduced the E-Governance system, endorsed open government policies, supported the planting of millions of trees, and inaugurated sanitation projects to ensure a clean and healthy environment throughout the state. Kano is progressing.
Let us unite in solidarity to construct a better Kano!
Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa is the spokesperson to Kano state governor Abba Kabir Yusuf writes from Kano
News
Kano State Politics Set for a Major Shift as Kwankwaso and Ganduje’s Influence Wanes: What’s Next for the Power Dynamics in 2027?
By Suleiman Abdullahi Gashuwa
Suleimanasuleiman476@gmail.com
As Kano populace describe their politics in Hausa language “Siyasar Kano, Sai Kano” has proven of what we are seeing today in the political landscape of the state is a replica of what might happen in the 2027 come general election.
it’s no more news that Kano State, a key political centre in Nigeria, has been significantly influenced by two to three persons i.e. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, and former governor and now APC national Chairman Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. Their longstanding dominance is now facing challenges, suggesting a potential shift in the political landscape by 2027.
Kwankwaso and Ganduje’s adversary as its stands has left Kano states political atmosphere in a tensed and uncertainty of the state future, which many are of the opinion it’s time to either they address their grievances or what is happening in the state will lead to the emergence of fresh Dark Horses to change the narratives.
Kwankwaso and Ganduje’s strained relationship has led to factionalism, and is now weakening their influence and opening doors for new political figures, and led to the agitation for the emergence of new younger and fresher politicians through social media and grassroots efforts, challenging the Kwankwaso, Shekarau and Ganduje’s dominance that lead Kano to the state it founds itself in at present, with fresh ideas.
Economic challenges and corruption have led to voter fatigue, increasing demands for accountability and effective governance.
The recent Dan Bello’s revelations of various degree of corruption involving the former Kano state local government commissioner Murtala Sule Garo and Ganduje’s wife Hafsat Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and Kwankwaso’s Nephew Garba Kwankwaso has nature and increase the need for change of the narratives in Kano politics.
Thuggery and increase in number youth going into drug abuse, has left many calling for the emergence of fresh and dark horses who will reform Kano, and revive morality and curb the menace thuggery has caused for decades in the state.
As the 2027 elections approach, the political dynamics in Kano are expected to evolve, especially the crisis likely to be faced by the top three political parties in the state.
Despite been the main opposition party in Kano,, the APC has its internal crisis, which will later expose itself, and might consume the party, and make it lose its influence in upcoming elections.
Having strong Figures growing their Ambitions as governors come 2027, the race is expected to be tough, with Ganduje likely to be at the centre wanting to influence the parties flag bearer, which posed a great treat to the party.
Kano North Powerful Horses:
Kano north might likely be the nerve centre of crisis for the APC in Kano state with powerful politicians likely to contest for the 2027 gubernatorial election.
As various powerful figures within the party assert their ambitions, Ganduje’s ability to maintain control may diminish. The conflicts and rivalries can erode his support base, as loyalty might shift towards emerging leaders who promise change or new opportunities.
The internal crisis within the APC could significantly weaken Abdullahi Ganduje’s longstanding influence in Kano politics because of the tactics implored by Barau Jibrin, Murtal Sule Garo, Abdulahi Tijjani Muhammad Gwarzo.
For instance Barau Jibrin (Maliya), who is Nigeria’s Deputy Senate President, has been fostering his political ambitions since 2023. Till then his influence and aspirations may lead to friction within the party, especially if his goals conflict with those of other prominent figures.
The growing power and ambitions of figures like Barau Jibrin may overshadow Ganduje’s influence, leading to a decline in his ability to dictate party dynamics and candidate selection.
Barau Jibrin’s role at the national level provides him with broader political connections and influence, which can be leveraged to gain support within the party, especially with Ganduje out as the APC National Chairman. Though the duos are currently on the same page and interest but only time will tell.
Barau’s potential to appeal to younger and disillusioned voters through fresh perspectives and policies aligns with the current demand for change in Kano. Age has been on his side, and carrying youth along he has a chance of Becoming the dark horse.
But has a great challenge of his long term rival Murtala Sule Garo from the same Kabo Local government, the fight will be very tough for Barau. Because Murtala has been among the three persons funding the APC at state level. He has also empowered many individuals from different category which made him a deciding factor in the coming race.
There are high tendencies that if Barau emerges the gubernatorial candidate for APC, Garo may be forced to leave the APC, because no matter what, with Barau as Governor, no senator will come out from same local government from Kano north, and that leaves him with no various options.
If Murtala Garo’s candidacy, could either split the vote or force strategic alliances, even though speculations has it that he might potentially defecting to the PDP due to his familial ties with Atiku Abubakar, a issues which stirred interest in Kano’s political scene.
If these rumours were to materialize, Garo’s move could have significant implications for both the NNPP and the APC, and more impact to Barau Jibrin.
For the PDP, Garo’s defection could serve as a much-needed boost, potentially reinvigorating the party’s presence in Kano. His influence and connections could attract disillusioned voters from the APC and even some from the NNPP, enhancing the PDP’s status as a credible opposition.
His relationship with Atiku could also facilitate strategic alliances and resource mobilization, making the PDP and Atiku Abubakar’s presidential ambition bid a more formidable force in the upcoming elections.
Conversely, Garo’s departure from the APC would represent a considerable loss for the party. As a significant player within the APC, his exit could weaken the party’s structure in Kano, especially if he takes loyal supporters with him.
This could create a power vacuum that rivals, particularly the NNPP, would be keen to exploit. The APC would need to reassess its strategies to maintain its influence in the region and prevent further erosion of its base.
Another top possible contender is the state minister for Housing Dr Abdullahi Tijjani Muhammad Gwarzo (Ruwa Baba), who Barau floors during the APC primary that returned him back to the assembly in 2015.
T Gwarzo has been a gubernatorial candidate under CAN which was where he gained his close relationship with the then presidential candidate and Nigeria’s current president Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
With him at the centre and the desperation of Barau Jibrin to maintain his control over the votes in Gwarzo local government, and Kano North he still needs to strategize and look at options to work ahead of them.
Apparently, Dr. Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna having contested for the governorship previously, Gawuna is likely to re-contest. His candidacy could clash with a lot of interests from various quarters because of how he enjoins the overwhelming support if Abdullahi Umar Ganduje in the previous election, thought unconfirmed reports says that he might be forced to contest for the Kano senatorial senator, for fears that he might not be accepted by Kano populace, and until now he hasn’t gotten a federal appointment, which many sees it as a means of manoeuvring him out of the race tactically.
Coming in is Hon Baffa Babba DanAgundi who now occupies the position of the director General of the national centre for Productivity and he hails from Kano Central, he is positioning himself as a potential running mate for any gubernatorial candidate.
His strategic positioning could create alliances or rivalries, depending on the dynamics and support he garners. But he might face serious opposition from many party angles because of stepping on many toes that will rather not having him as a deputy
Each option presents both opportunities and challenges for the respective parties, underscoring the fluidity and unpredictability of the region’s political dynamics.
The NNPP , Kwankwaso, Corruption and other rumbles:
Coming in to the internal crisis brewing within the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) which multifaceted and poses significant challenges to its dominance in Kano.
Kwankwaso control factor remains a critical point, his influence shapes party dynamics. His leadership is now under scrutiny due to corruption scandals involving himself at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC, his close relatives and some key officials in Abba Kabir Yusuf’s government, which could undermine public trust and party integrity, from Kano populace.
Furthermore, the NNPP is currently facing a potential defection of prominent figures like Kawu Sumaila and Al-Hassan Rurum because of their different views on the new Kano Emirate law, and accusation of been sidelined on things related to Kano and decisions taking within the party at state levels, which of allowed to leave could weaken the party’s structure and support base.
Their discontent reflects broader dissatisfaction within the party, exacerbated by perceived sidelining of influential members such as Ali Madakin Gini who is the minority leader of the House of Representatives. This marginalization could alienate important factions and erode loyalty among supporters and even him decamping back to the APC especially with his relationship with Barau Jibrin as In-laws.
With only a year remaining to solidify its position and execute various projects to showcase for a re-election by the state governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, the NNPP faces an uphill battle. The combination of internal strife, corruption allegations, and key defections could hinder its effectiveness and electoral prospects in Kano. If not addressed, these issues may lead to a significant decline in the party’s influence, complicating efforts to maintain a stronghold in the region as political dynamics evolve.
Equally one thing that has starts to manifest if the possibility of bigger crisis within the NNPP after the local governments elections. There have been speculations that many chairmanship aspirants where not endorsed by Kwankwaso, and that Kwankwaso anointed persons loyal to him which many sees that it might jeopardised the parties future.
The Tootles Bull dog fighting for survival:
The crisis within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has further weakened its influence in Kano politics, allowing other parties like the APC to gain ground. Key figures such as Aminu Wali, Ibrahim Shekarau, Yunusa Dangwani, and Ibrahim Littles are engaged in a power struggle that has fragmented the party and diluted its effectiveness as the primary opposition.
Despite having notable leaders, the PDP’s inability to present a cohesive front has led to a perception of disarray. The ongoing rivalry among these influential figures not only hampers strategic decision-making but also alienates potential supporters. Each leader’s quest for dominance often overshadows collective goals, making it difficult for the PDP to mobilize effectively.
The internal crises faced by the PDP, APC, and NNPP could indeed pave the way for a political revolution in Kano, potentially leading to significant changes in the political landscape. As dissatisfaction grows within these established parties, disillusioned voters may seek alternatives that better address their needs and aspirations.
Despite these analysis only time can tell, what will happen in Kano state politics, with all presidential contenders eyeing to control the state due to the densely concentrated votes there .
As its slogan by its town criers “Kano ta Dabo, Jalla Babbar Hausa, ko da me ka zo am Fika”.
Mahmud Zukogi
With the resignation of Ajuri Obari Ngelale, SA Media and Publicity to the President, the presidency need not agonize in searching for a replacement that is equally competent, versatile and experienced.
Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, an award winning Investigative Journalist, shares the double advantage of being a presidency insider familiar with the media function and protocols, having served in the last one year as SSA (Print Media) to the President. Prior to this, he, together with his boss from Daily Trust, Mahmud Jega, were appointed to strengthen the media team of the Presidential Campaign Council.
If the Presidency is conscious of the politics of representation, and seeks to balance in-house positions around the President, Abdulaziz is the best bet to immediately replace Ajuri Ngelale…and this is not some compensation. Abdulaziz fits the bill, fairly and squarely. Before joining the ace print media company, Media Trust, as Deputy Editor and Deputy General Editor, Abdulaziz was already a celebrated journalist with sterling awards to boot.
He won twice the Wole Soyinka Prize for Investigative Journalism and the AIM award for the best investigative documentary on, “Nigeria’s Banditry: The Inside Story.” What’s more, the young Abdulaziz worked through the ladder serving as a reporter/correspondent and Bureau Chief for Leadership newspapers, Blueprint and then ace investigative media outfit, Premium Times. Abdulaziz is fully equipped for this job, with some professional trainings in his kitty, added to a prestigious Bachelor and Master of Arts in English from Bayero University, Kano.
The commitment and passion with which Abdulaziz brings to bear in his job of representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and publicising the policies and programmes of the government, especially in the north, is commendable. His vast regular and social media network is rich and could count further in bringing the presidency, what it represents and is doing closer to the vast majority of Nigerians.
And by way of interesting comparison, Abdulaziz shares the same height with Ajuri Ngelale. Both of them are 6.4 feets tall. Any possible replacement for Ngelale must equally stand tall and not shorter. It must be someone who is easily visible to the camera and to the audience.
Behold the new Presidential Spokesman!
Mahmud Zukogi
….An Open Letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu……
By Nasiru Salisu Zango
Dear Mr. President,
In light of the recent voluntary resignation of the presidential spokesperson, there is a significant need to fill the vacant position with a capable and competent individual.
In my humble opinion, there is no better choice than Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, your current Special Assistant on Media, a man of exceptional intellect, experience, and dedication.
Appointing Abdulaziz to this critical role would be the most astute decision for your administration.
His extensive background as a reporter and editor for esteemed publications such as Blueprint Premium Times, and Daily Trust has left a legacy of excellence that continues to resonate across Nigeria.
Abdulaziz is a recipient of numerous awards, including the prestigious Wole Soyinka Center for Investigative Journalism Award.
His integrity, dedication, and work ethic remain exemplary, even after his elevation into the corridors of power within Aso Rock Villa.
Arrogance and vanity are foreign concepts to him, as he continues to maintain strong relationships with colleagues and friends across the media industry.
Despite the challenging task of defending the current administration, especially given the economic policies that have brought hardship to many Nigerians, Abdulaziz has consistently worked with dedication to enlighten the public.
He reminds Nigerians that although the present may be tough, there is light at the end of the tunnel. His unwavering optimism and thoughtful communication have been crucial in maintaining public morale during these difficult times.
Abdulaziz is known not only for his professional prowess but also for his personal character.
He is accommodating, approachable, and always ready to embrace friends and colleagues as family.
These attributes have earned him respect from a wide range of people, both within and outside the media industry.
His ability to foster inclusivity and bring everyone together has made him a respected figure across political divides.
Appointing Abdulaziz as your next presidential spokesperson would be a strategic move, bringing both competence and credibility to the role.
His popularity, especially in the northern part of the country where he hails from, would enhance your administration’s connection with various regions.
As a Nigerian citizen and social commentator, I urge you, Mr. President, and the esteemed individuals within Aso Rock, to give this recommendation serious consideration.
Abdulaziz Abdulaziz is more than qualified for the job.
His intelligence is unparalleled, his experience speaks for itself, and his ability to use his pen as a powerful tool is second to none.
This recommendation is not made out of personal friendship but out of a deep conviction that Abdulaziz Abdulaziz is indeed the right man for the job.
His capacity to succeed Ajuri Ngelale as presidential spokesperson would be an invaluable asset to your administration.
Nasiru Salisu Zango is the Manager News Freedom Radio, writes form Kano
Kwankwaso Criticizes Federal Government Over Rice Palliative Distribution in Kano
Dangote set to complete multimillion Naira skills centre, says Nawabuddin
Barau Jibrin Launches Postgraduate Foreign Scholarship Scheme for Kano Students
Kano State Politics Set for a Major Shift as Kwankwaso and Ganduje’s Influence Wanes: What’s Next for the Power Dynamics in 2027?
Fagge, Mai Bushira, Naniya now professors as BUK Promotes 90 Senior Academics
Tinubu appoints Prof Abdullahi Pakistan chairman of Hajj Commission
Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, bags PhD
BUK appoints Haruna Aliyu new Registrar
Doctors hold solidarity walk in Kano, demand release of abducted colleague
