TDF knocks Kwankwaso, insists Tinubu is advancing northern development
The Democratic Front (TDF) has criticized former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso for his remarks suggesting that Lagos is attempting to “colonize” the North. The group described the comments as divisive and damaging to national unity.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Mallam Danjuma Muhammad, and Secretary, Chief Wale Adedayo, TDF called Kwankwaso’s claims “mischievous, devious, and insulting” to both the North and Lagos.
The group warned that such allegations could stoke political tension and foster distrust in an already delicate environment.
“We are deeply concerned that a political figure of Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s stature could make such frivolous and unfounded allegations,” the statement read.
“As someone who contested the 2023 presidential election, he should have a better grasp of the Federal Government’s proposal on tax reforms and avoid stirring regional tension.”
TDF noted that Kwankwaso’s comments misrepresented the tax reform bill currently before the National Assembly, painting it as biased against the North. The group expressed disappointment that Kwankwaso portrayed the North as a victim of a policy that is, in reality, neutral and aimed at national progress.
TDF also criticized Kwankwaso for allegedly involving other parts of the country in the Kano Emirate crisis. “It is unfair and unpatriotic for Dr. Kwankwaso to blame any section of Nigeria for a local issue stemming from the decision by Kano Governor Abba Yusuf to dethrone Emir Aminu Ado Bayero and reinstate Emir Sanusi Lamido Sanusi,” the statement said.
The group described the legal challenges surrounding the Emirate as a test of Nigeria’s democracy and rule of law. “The onus lies on the governor to prove the constitutionality of his actions, not to shift blame to an imaginary ‘Lagos Axis,’” TDF added.
Rather than fanning ethnic or regional tensions, TDF advised Kwankwaso to acknowledge President Bola Tinubu’s significant contributions to Northern Nigeria’s development.
“In the past 16 months, President Tinubu has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to addressing the North’s socio-economic and infrastructural challenges,” the group noted.
TDF highlighted Tinubu’s achievements, including:
Establishing the National Almajiri Commission and the Pulaku Initiative.
Inaugurating Africa’s largest tomato processing plant in Kebbi State.
Creating the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development.
Completing and commissioning the 700 MW Zungeru Power Plant.
Ongoing construction of the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway.
Launching military initiatives to combat insecurity in the region.
Ensuring Northern students are major beneficiaries of the Students’ Loan Scheme.
“No government in recent history has been so intentional about tackling the North’s socio-economic challenges as President Tinubu,” TDF stated.
TDF urged Kwankwaso and other Northern leaders to refrain from making inflammatory statements that could undermine national unity. “We appeal to Dr. Kwankwaso and his allies to focus on fostering peace and supporting policies that benefit all Nigerians,” the group said.
The statement also called on Northern residents to support Tinubu’s administration, emphasizing that unity and cooperation are essential for progress.
