Tinubu’s Minister Declares Kwankwaso Politically Dead, Says APC Rejects His Return
Prominent leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State, including Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development Yusuf Bala Ata, have expressed opposition to the rumored defection of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) back to the APC.
Speaking to journalists after a meeting with APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje in Abuja, Ata dismissed Kwankwaso’s relevance in Kano politics, calling him “politically dead.”
“The red cap movement is disappearing fast in Kano. It’s difficult to spot anyone wearing it these days. Even in mosques where thousands gather, you can barely count 20 red caps. That says a lot,” Ata said, referring to Kwankwaso’s political symbol.
He stated that unless Ganduje, Kwankwaso’s long-time rival and former Kano governor, personally decides to receive him, the APC in Kano rejects his return.
“Let it be clear: we did not invite Kwankwaso. He is the one struggling to return, not because he is needed, but because he sees political survival in APC. To us, he is no longer relevant. His return will only bring division,” Ata said.
He claimed the APC remains united in Kano and said the president can rely on the state in future elections.
“Mr. President is fully aware of the political reality in Kano. Kwankwaso has lost his base. The grassroots no longer identify with him,” he added.
When asked about accepting Kwankwaso’s return, Ata said “Personally, I won’t be happy about it. I was in the House of Assembly when he was governor in 1999. I know him well. But if our leader, Ganduje, decides to take him back, then so be it.”
Ganduje was more restrained but critical “Kwankwaso is like a fish out of water. When water dries up, the fish looks for another pond. He has been abandoned by his people and is now seeking shelter. As a big brother, I won’t shut the door on him completely. But let’s not forget—he comes to us out of need, not strength.”
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