In a significant development, there have been claims
suggesting that the President-elect, Bola Tinubu,
engaged in discussions with
the former Governor of Kano State, Rabiu Kwankwaso, during a meeting held on
Tuesday. This meeting, which took place in Paris, France, was aimed at
strengthening ties between the two political figures and seeking Kwankwaso’s
support for Tinubu’s political ambitions.
In addition to Kwankwaso, the former Emir of Kano, Muhammadu
Sanusi II, was also present at the meeting, along with other political
personalities. These discussions were considered crucial for Tinubu’s
aspirations, as they sought to foster collaboration and urged Kwankwaso to
mobilize his political associates to form a united front.
During the meeting, it was reported that Tinubu presented
Kwankwaso with options for ministerial positions, specifically in the
Ministries of Agriculture or Education. However, as of the time of reporting,
it remains uncertain whether Kwankwaso will accept the offer to serve as a
minister or pass on the opportunity to one of his loyalists. The outcome of
Kwankwaso’s decision is eagerly awaited.
Notably, the meeting was graced by the presence of the
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Honorable Femi Gbajabiamila. Kwankwaso
was accompanied by Honorable Abdulmumin Jibrin, an elected member from Kano.
Aside from ministerial positions, the discussions encompassed
various subjects, including the enduring friendship between Tinubu and
Kwankwaso, national unity, development priorities, upcoming National Assembly
contests, and Tinubu’s vision for a government of national unity, in which
Kwankwaso has expressed interest in participating.
Furthermore, Tinubu hinted at the possibility of reconciling
the strained relationship between Kwankwaso and the outgoing Governor of Kano
State, Abdullahi Ganduje. The animosity between the two politicians arose
following Ganduje’s succession as governor. Tinubu’s victory in the
presidential election, despite Kwankwaso’s win in Kano State, underscores the
strategic importance of maintaining positive relations in the North West
region, where Tinubu garnered a significant portion of his total votes.
Regarding the meeting between Kwankwaso and former Emir
Sanusi, the specifics of their discussion have not been disclosed to the
public. However, it is believed that the conversation revolved around recent
political developments in Kano. Speculation suggests that the Governor-elect,
Abba Yusuf, may revisit the dethronement of Sanusi as the Emir of Kano. It is
worth noting that Kwankwaso played a crucial role in Sanusi’s appointment as
the Emir of Kano, and their longstanding relationship adds weight to the significance
of their meeting.
Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria in preparation for
his inauguration on May 29. His engagement in productive discussions and
pursuit of support from influential figures in Kano indicate the importance he
places on the region’s political landscape.
