The Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, has sharply criticized 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 branded the move unconstitutional, cautioning that it risked entrenching a culture of impunity.
In a statement issued from Kano, Ata staunchly defended Tinubu’s decision, arguing it was made to safeguard national stability and security. He underscored that the emergency declaration was a necessary step to restore law and order in Rivers State, which has been mired in prolonged political unrest. Ata also praised the National Assembly’s two chambers for their prompt endorsement of the president’s proclamation, viewing it as a testament to their commitment to national interest.
Ata went on to challenge Kwankwaso’s credibility, accusing him of a flawed grasp of law and governance. He claimed that during Kwankwaso’s time as Kano State governor, he cultivated a culture of political intimidation, particularly in his interactions with lawmakers, and consistently flouted legislative independence and the rule of law. The minister further pointed to Kwankwaso’s alleged meddling in Kano’s ongoing emirship dispute, criticizing the state government’s apparent disregard for court orders under his influence. Ata warned that such actions have stoked political tension and public discontent in Kano by undermining traditional institutions and judicial integrity.
Urging restraint, Ata called on Kwankwaso to refrain from making baseless statements on national matters, especially regarding Tinubu’s constitutional authority to declare a state of emergency when deemed essential. The minister’s remarks highlight a deepening rift between the administration’s supporters and opposition figures as Nigeria navigates complex political challenges.
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