Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, the newly appointed Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, has announced his efforts to reintegrate Senator Abdulrahman Kawu Sumaila, Rep. Kabiru Alhassan Rurum, and other dissatisfied members of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) back into the All Progressives Congress (APC). This initiative aims to strengthen the party’s position in Kano State.
Senator Sumaila, who represents Kano South, along with Rurum, a former Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly representing the Kibiya, Rano, and Bunkure federal constituency, previously left the APC to join the NNPP. Their departure was primarily motivated by concerns over the perceived marginalisation of Kano South in the selection process for the party’s governorship candidate during the previous elections.
In an interview with BBC Hausa, Ata highlighted the challenges faced by the APC in Kano and underscored the importance of appointing individuals who have demonstrated loyalty and commitment to the party. He stated that effective governance requires knowledgeable leaders who understand the intricacies of their roles.
Ata expressed confidence in the APC’s future prospects in Kano, noting significant changes since the new administration took office. He remarked on the visible reduction of opposition presence in the region, suggesting that the party is strategically positioning itself for upcoming elections.
Furthermore, Ata, who hails from Kano Central, stressed the need for a balanced approach in the party’s activities across the region. He pointed out that the northern Kano area, which includes influential figures such as Ganduje, Abba Bichi, Murtala, and T. Gwarzo, has been a stronghold for the APC in past elections.
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The Minister also acknowledged the ongoing crisis within the NNPP, in which both Sumaila and Rurum have been actively involved. This situation presents an opportunity for the APC to attract these leaders back, potentially strengthening the party’s influence in the state.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, Ata remains optimistic about the APC’s ability to regain lost ground. He believes that with strategic planning and a focus on addressing the concerns of party members, the APC can reclaim its position in Kano.
In conclusion, Ata’s commitment to uniting disgruntled party members and addressing the challenges within the APC reflects a broader strategy to enhance the party’s appeal and effectiveness in Kano State.
