Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Ata has criticised the 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Engr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso over his comments against the state of emergency placed on Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu.
Ata said that the decision was taken in the best interest of national stability and security.
The minister, in a statement issued in Kano on Sunday by his aide, Seyi Olorunsola, stated that Kwankwaso should keep his opinions to himself, emphasising that the declaration was a step aimed at maintaining law and order in Rivers State after suffering prolonged political turmoil.
LEADERSHIP recalls that Kwankwaso had described the state of emergency on Rivers State as unconstitutional overdrive that could foster a culture of impunity.
Ata further commended both chambers of the National Assembly for their swift and responsible approval of the presidents’ proclamation.
“The current legislature is composed of astute minds capable of conducting timely and diligent reviews of security briefings to forestall further escalation of crises, unlike Kwankwaso who remained inactive throughout his four years in the Senate” he stated.
“I praise President Bola Tinubu for being decisive and demonstrating that he is attuned to the concerns of Nigerians.
“The president is firmly incharge of his government and is proactively addressing national issues” Ata added.
The Minister also described Kwankwaso as someone with a flawed understanding of law and governance, adding that the former governor of Kano State fostered a culture of political intimidation, particularly in his dealings with lawmakers during his tenure.
Ata, who had served in the state Assembly then recalled that Kwankwaso had consistently disregarded legislative independence and the rule of law.
He also criticised Kwankwaso’s partisan interference in the Emirship tussle highlighting the Kano state government’s persistent disregard for court order.
“Governor Abba’s decision to proceed with local government elections despite a court injunction confirms that he is merely executing Kwankwaso’s script.
“This poses a significant threat to the rule of law under the NNPP government in Kano” he stated.
The Minister warned that the continued undermining of traditional institutions and judicial processes has fueled political tension and public dissatisfaction in Kano.
He called on Kwankwaso to desist from making unfounded statements on national issues, particularly on President Tinubu’s constitutional prerogative to declare a state of emergency when necessary.
