Gwarzo explains why Tinubu dismissed him from his position as minister of state.

In a recent interview with BBC Hausa, Abdullahi Gwarzo, the immediate former Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, articulated his belief that his dismissal by President Bola Tinubu was politically motivated. Gwarzo contended that the decision was not a reflection of his performance in office but rather influenced by political considerations.

On October 23, 2024, President Tinubu announced the dismissal of Gwarzo, along with four other ministers, citing the need for a balance of political representation within the government. However, Gwarzo expressed his surprise at the dismissal, emphasizing that he had not been found guilty of any wrongdoing during his tenure. He noted that the senior minister had been responsible for overseeing a significant portion of their ministry’s activities.

Furthermore, Gwarzo suggested that the position should have been offered to Nasiru Gawuna, the All Progressives Congress governorship candidate in Kano State, arguing that it would be prudent to consider Gawuna for the role first. His remarks highlight a perceived imbalance in the selection process, as he pointed out that gubernatorial candidates from other states had been appointed to ministerial positions.

Gwarzo’s reflections raise questions about the significance of political affiliations in cabinet appointments and the implications for governance in Nigeria. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the balance of power and representation within the government remains a critical topic of discussion.