Face Your Challenges in Kano, Minister Criticizes Kwankwaso Over Comments on State of Emergency in Rivers

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Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, has rebuked Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), for his remarks on President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.

Kwankwaso had described the move as unconstitutional and cautioned that it could encourage a culture of impunity.

In a statement released in Kano, Ata defended the president’s decision, asserting that it was made in the interest of national stability and security. He stressed that the declaration was necessary to restore law and order in Rivers State amid prolonged political unrest. Ata also praised the National Assembly for promptly endorsing the president’s proclamation.

The minister accused Kwankwaso of lacking a proper understanding of law and governance, citing his tenure as Kano State governor, during which Ata claimed Kwankwaso promoted political intimidation, particularly in his interactions with lawmakers.

Ata alleged that Kwankwaso consistently undermined legislative independence and the rule of law during his time in office.

Ata also criticized Kwankwaso’s involvement in the emirship dispute in Kano, pointing out the state government’s repeated disregard for court orders. He warned that such actions have eroded trust in traditional institutions and judicial processes, exacerbating political tensions and public discontent in the state.

The minister urged Kwankwaso to refrain from making baseless statements on national issues, especially regarding President Tinubu’s constitutional authority to declare a state of emergency when deemed necessary.