Governor Yusuf Nominates Kwankwaso’s Son as Commissioner: Political Tensions Rise

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has put forth the name of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, son of the prominent leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement and NNPP presidential candidate in the 2023 election, for a commissioner position in his cabinet.

This nomination comes alongside the reappointment of Adamu Aliyu Kibiya, the former Commissioner for Land and Physical Planning, who was previously dismissed after controversially threatening judges of the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal in Kano.

Reportedly, Governor Yusuf has submitted a formal request to the Assembly for the confirmation of these nominees, as stated by Kamaluddeen Sani Shawai, the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly.

The list of nominees also includes Alhaji Abdul-Jabbar Umar Garki, Shehu Usman Aliyu Karaye, and Alhaji Mustapha Rabiu Musa.

Moreover, Governor Yusuf has disclosed plans for the creation of new ministries, including the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Eradication, Ministry of Solid Minerals Resources, Ministry of Power and Renewable Energy, and Ministry of Internal Security and Special Service. He believes that these additions will enhance socioeconomic activities, governance efficiency, and sustainable development in the state.

The screening of the nominees is scheduled for April 2, 2024.

However, the announcement has sparked mixed reactions, particularly among supporters of the Kwankwasiyya movement. Some express concern over what they perceive as nepotism and the entrenchment of familial ties in government affairs.

One supporter, speaking anonymously, criticized the move, stating, “The governor has deeply involved his family members into the government and Oga (Kwankwaso) too is bringing his own son. It’s not good at all.”

Another supporter echoed similar sentiments, expressing disappointment and apprehension about potential public backlash: “If this is really true, then I cannot even go into my neighborhood today because I will have to close my ears in shame. It’s too early.”