- The APC chairman defended the federal government’s palliatives distribution in Kano.
- The chairman also criticized Kwankwaso for politicizing palliatives distribution.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano state has reacted to the criticism of Rabiu Kwankwaso, a prominent member of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), on the federal government’s palliative distribution methods.
Recall that Kwankwaso accused the federal government of undermining constitutional democracy by excluding Kano from the recent distribution of rice palliatives to 36 other states.
In a statement, APC Chairman Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas said that the federal government is commited to alleviating hunger nationwide, but the NNPP-led government in Kano is hindering these efforts.
Abbas said that President Bola Tinubu has initiated several measures to support vulnerable individuals and households, but those responsible for distributing the resources are allegedly misappropriating them.
He listed examples of high-ranking NNPP officials allegedly involved in diverting palliatives, including the Managing Director of KASCO, Dr. Tukur Dayyabu Minjibir, who was found selling state-owned grains.
Abbas also mentioned the arrest of a Senior Special Assistant, Tasi’u Al’Amin Roba, for allegedly diverting state palliatives.
The APC chairman urged Kwankwaso to direct his associate, the governor, to investigate these incidents and ensure accountability and prosecution of those responsible.
Abbas also faulted Kwankwaso for claiming that the APC was solely responsible for the distribution exercise.
He noted that the Federal Government’s reconstituted committee includes representatives from various political parties, including the NNPP, PDP, and IPAC.
Abbas explained that this bipartisan committee developed a detailed plan for palliative distribution to prevent diversion and ensure that genuine beneficiaries receive the support.
He defended the reassignment of Department of State Service Directors, saying it was a deliberate decision by Tinubu to ensure that only capable security heads are posted to Kano.
Abbas observed that during Gov. Abdullahi Ganduje’s two-term administration, Kano experienced relative peace, with no violent incidents.
Abbas stated, “But the prevailing insecurity in the state is the handiwork of the NNPP government, which encouraged and supported violent youth.”