Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, has strongly criticized Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), over his remarks regarding President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
Kwankwaso had condemned the move as unconstitutional, warning it could set a dangerous precedent for impunity. However, Ata defended the president’s decision, stating it was made in the interest of national stability and security, especially amid ongoing political unrest in Rivers State. He also praised the National Assembly for swiftly approving the measure.
Accusing Kwankwaso of a flawed grasp of governance, Ata alleged that during his tenure as Kano State governor, Kwankwaso fostered political intimidation and disregarded legislative independence. He also pointed to Kwankwaso’s interference in the Kano emirship crisis, arguing that continued disregard for court rulings has fueled political instability in the state.
Ata urged Kwankwaso to refrain from making baseless claims on national matters, particularly regarding the president’s constitutional authority to declare a state of emergency when necessary.
