Minister Ata Criticizes Kwankwaso Over Comments on Rivers State Emergency

The Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, has condemned the remarks made by Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), regarding President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.

Kwankwaso had described the declaration as unconstitutional, warning that it could set a dangerous precedent for impunity.

However, in a statement issued in Kano, Ata defended the president’s decision, insisting that it was made in the interest of national stability and security.

He maintained that the move was necessary to restore law and order following the prolonged political crisis in Rivers State.

Ata commended both chambers of the National Assembly for their swift approval of the president’s proclamation, emphasizing that the legislature had acted in accordance with its constitutional duty.

The minister also took a swipe at Kwankwaso, accusing him of a poor understanding of governance and legal frameworks. He alleged that during his tenure as governor of Kano State, Kwankwaso fostered a climate of political intimidation, particularly in his dealings with lawmakers.

Recalling Kwankwaso’s actions, Ata claimed that the former governor had consistently disregarded legislative independence and the rule of law, further citing his interference in Kano’s emirship tussle as an example of political overreach.

He warned that persistent disregard for traditional institutions and judicial orders had contributed to political instability and public dissatisfaction in Kano.

Ata urged Kwankwaso to refrain from making unfounded statements on national matters, particularly on President Tinubu’s constitutional authority to declare a state of emergency when necessary.