Tensions have intensified within the Kano State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) following a disagreement between the state chairman, Abdullahi Abbas, and the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Abdullahi Attah, over comments relating to the party’s future political direction.
The dispute erupted after Attah was reported to have endorsed Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau as the party’s preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election. His remarks, which circulated publicly, drew the ire of the state leadership.
In a letter addressed to the minister, Abbas criticized Attah’s position, describing the statement as inappropriate and potentially disruptive to party cohesion. He warned that making such declarations without authorization could fuel internal discord and misrepresent the party’s official stance. Abbas also reminded Attah that matters concerning succession planning fall strictly under the APC leadership and its designated spokespersons. He cautioned that any further breach of party communication protocols could attract disciplinary action.
Responding through his media aide, Seyi Olorunsola, the minister defended his comments as part of his constitutional right to express personal political views. Attah maintained that his endorsement of Barau was a personal assessment intended to offer strategic insight, not an official announcement on behalf of the APC.
He reaffirmed his loyalty to the ruling party and President Bola Tinubu, insisting that his remarks were born out of patriotic intentions aimed at strengthening the APC’s chances in the 2027 elections. Attah further advised party leaders to avoid turning internal disagreements into public confrontations, especially at a time when the nation faces pressing security challenges.
The minister clarified that his views were informed by extensive engagement with grassroots supporters and were intended to stimulate constructive political debate ahead of the party’s formal nomination process.