By Hauwa Yusuf , Kano
Hon. Tijjani Abdulkadir Jobe, the incumbent Member representing Dawakin Tofa, Rimin-Gado, and Tofa Federal Constituency, has announced his intention to contest for a sixth term in office. This move has sparked controversy, with some constituents accusing him of neglecting their interests and failing to deliver on his promises during his five terms in office. Critics have also pointed out that Hon. Jobe has not visited or engaged with his constituents since the 2023 election, despite claiming to be a major supporter of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
In a surprising twist, Hon. Jobe has leveled accusations against Sunusi Bature, the Director General of Media and Publicity to the Kano State Governor, alleging that Bature has been working to undermine the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) by inducing some party members to defect. Hon. Jobe has cautioned Governor Yusuf to restrain Bature from challenging him in the forthcoming election, accusing Bature of working for the opposition and allegedly being sponsored by Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
Hon. Jobe has also warned Governor Yusuf and Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso about the potential consequences of Bature’s interest in contesting the House of Representatives seat for Dawakin Tofa, Rimin-Gado, and Tofa Federal Constituency, citing the risk of division within the party and undermining its chances in the election.
The reactions to Hon. Jobe’s declaration have been mixed, with some constituents expressing support for his re-election bid while others have vowed to hold him accountable for his actions. The accusations against Bature have raised questions about the stability of the NNPP in the constituency and the potential implications for the state’s politics.
“I’m committed to serving the people of Dawakin Tofa, Rimin-Gado, and Tofa Federal Constituency for another term, and I’m confident that I will emerge victorious,” Hon. Tijjani Abdulkadir Jobe said.
Sunusi Bature has responded to Hon. Jobe’s accusations, stating that he will challenge him in the 2027 polls if he fails to deliver on his promises to his constituents. Bature’s supporters argue that his style of engaging stakeholders and party members has earned him a strong following in the constituency, and that he is a formidable opponent in the upcoming election.
As the political landscape heats up, it remains to be seen how Hon. Jobe will address the challenges facing the constituency and respond to the accusations against Bature. The NNPP will also need to take steps to stabilize the party and prevent further defections.