Why Tinubu failed to give Kwankwaso ministerial slot – APC spokesman

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has hinted that the persistent criticism of the legacy of the party’s National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, in Kano State might have played a role in the absence of Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, the presidential candidate of the New Nigerian People’s Party (NNPP), from President Bola Tinubu’s ministerial nominees.

Leading up to the announcement of Tinubu’s cabinet picks, speculations had arisen regarding Kwankwaso potentially securing a ministerial role in the government due to his rapport with Tinubu following the presidential election. However, when the list of ministerial nominees was revealed, Kwankwaso’s name was conspicuously absent, while Nyesom Wike, a former governor of Rivers State from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), secured a spot.

In a conversation with our correspondent, Bala Ibrahim, the Director of Publicity for the APC, suggested that the sustained critiques of Ganduje’s accomplishments by Governor Abba Yusuf of the NNPP and Kwankwaso’s political protege may have influenced Tinubu’s decision. Ibrahim contended that the manner in which Kwankwaso’s Kwankwasiyya movement conducted itself had eroded the public’s support for him, citing its involvement in contentious political activities.

Ibrahim stated, “Kwankwaso is a significant figure in Kano politics. However, the conduct of his Kwankwasiyya movement has gradually diminished his support. The brigandage that the movement has introduced into Kano’s politics, and by extension, Nigeria’s, has contributed to this decline.”

He further explained, “The President must have taken into consideration the sentiments of the public and assessed the relevance and execution of his policies, especially his efforts to win the hearts of Kano residents. Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje possesses notable political astuteness, maturity, and experience when it comes to Kano politics.”