Between Kwankwaso and Ganduje

Abdullahi Umar Ganduje

SIR: Any keen political observer must have seen the handwriting boldly on the wall. The cracks are open and glaring. The goings are no more rosy between Gov. Ganduje of Kano State and his fast-becoming estranged benefactor and boss, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. It is a matter of time before it becomes a dirty, street political fight between the duo. It is more obvious on the social media where it is hard to see any die-hard Kwankassiyah as his followers are fond of mentioning anything Ganduje or his government when on a normal ground, they should have seen it as a continuum of Kwankwaso’s government.

The political history both men have shared together for about two decades makes their case to be unique on one hand. Off politics, they should be best of friends for life. Until recently, one would be right to think the duo will make a perfect model, whenever reference is to be made, of how best political loyalty and partnership can be maintained even with a change of baton. Since 1999, the few governors that have installed their deputies or key allies after the expiration of their tenures have had different sad tales to tell.

In this game where governor/deputy relationship is characterized by suspicion, hatred and mistrust, Senator Kwankwaso deserves kudos for finding his deputy and key loyalists of many years worthy of succeeding him. While not being judgmental, it is clear that the new man in Kano is not ready to build on the legacies of the Kwankwassiya family as laid down by his boss.

Two events of the past weeks are worth highlighting. The government first systematically criticised the pensioners housing scheme of Kwankwaso, saying he built an estate that those meant for can’t afford due to costly prices. Also, the government openly disowned the 1,800 teachers employed by the ex-governor on the premise that they were employed on the twilight of the administration. These among many others are tactical ways of fighting his boss. Even the red cap uniform that is the identity of the Kwankwassiyahs has disappeared on Gov. Ganduje’s head.

The two leaders, in the interest of peace and development of Kano State, should continue working hand-in-hand as any political friction between the duo will have serious impacts on the governance and peace in the state.

• Abdulateef Usman, Lagos.