Ganduje Faults Kwankwaso’s Remarks, Hails Expected Return of Gov. Abba Yusuf to APC
Former Governor of Kano State and immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has expressed strong displeasure over remarks allegedly made against him by Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, describing them as unnecessary and deeply troubling at a time when Kano State requires unity and calm.
This position was disclosed on Monday by the Director-General of the National Productivity Centre, Dr. Baffa Babba Dan’agundi, while briefing journalists on recent political developments in the state. According to Dan’agundi, Dr. Ganduje personally conveyed his dissatisfaction over the comments attributed to the former governor and presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).
“Dr. Ganduje made it very clear to me that he was not happy at all with the comments made by Senator Kwankwaso against him,” Dan’agundi said.
He alleged that Senator Kwankwaso had referred to Ganduje as “Maikyi” while addressing his supporters, a remark Ganduje reportedly found offensive. The statement was said to have been made in the context of accusations by Kwankwaso that the Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, was planning to take control of government institutions for use against political opponents.
Dan’agundi quoted Ganduje as saying such statements were ill-timed and counterproductive, especially given the prevailing need for peace, unity, and collective progress in Kano State.
He explained that Ganduje views the anticipated return of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to the APC as an opportunity for reconciliation among political leaders rather than renewed hostility.
“In Dr. Ganduje’s view, the return of the Kano State Governor to the APC should be a platform for leaders to come together, put aside their differences, and focus on moving Kano State forward,” Dan’agundi said.
The former APC national chairman was also quoted as stressing that, considering their age and long years of political engagement, both he and Senator Kwankwaso should now assume the role of elder statesmen.
“He believes there is no justification for continued rivalry, as both of them have reached a stage where they no longer have personal political ambitions, having exhausted the constitutional limits of elective offices,” Dan’agundi added.
On the reported move by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to rejoin the APC, Dan’agundi described the development as a source of excitement and renewed hope for the party in Kano State.
“It is a thing of joy for us. APC leaders, stakeholders, and supporters across Kano State are happy and encouraged by the Governor’s return, and we are fully prepared to accord him maximum support and cooperation,” he said.
He further disclosed that preparations to formally receive the Governor into the party are already at an advanced stage, both at the national and state levels.
“Discussions at the national level have progressed significantly, while consultations are also ongoing at the state level,” he noted.
According to him, the delay in concluding the arrangements is due to the Umrah pilgrimage of the Kano State APC Chairman, Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas, and the absence of Dr. Ganduje, who is currently outside the country.
“Once they return, a special meeting will be held with His Excellency Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and his delegation to finalize the process,” Dan’agundi assured.
He concluded by offering prayers for peace and unity in the state, expressing hope that the Governor’s anticipated entry into the APC would usher in stability and development.
“We pray that Governor Abba’s return to the APC will bring lasting peace, progress, and development to Kano State and its people. We also pray that Senator Kwankwaso will appreciate the importance of unity and join hands with others for the greater good of Kano,” he said.