Kwankwaso, who has functioned in the capacity of Defence Minister before, may likely return to the post again in a new alliance with the ruling party
By Jude-Ken Ojinnaka
There are strong speculations that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu may consider appointing the former governor of Kano State and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) presidential candidate in the February 25 presidential election, Rabiu Kwankwaso as the Minister of Defence in his new government.
This development surfaced after Kwankwaso met with Tinubu at the State House in Abuja a few weeks ago.
It is believed that their discussion centred around Kwankwaso’s potential involvement in the new administration of Bola Tinubu.
There are indications that Kwankwaso might be given the Defense Ministry position as part of an alliance deal with the Kano political tactician.
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A source disclosed that the attempt to offer Kwankwaso a slot in the government has already created wrangling within the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The sources said: “Based on what I know, the President’s team will consist of 20 powerful special advisers who are likely to wield significant influence. They may become the influential inner circle.
“The APC is currently facing intense infighting, with some factions supporting former Kano governor Umar Ganduje. However, Tinubu appears to have aligned himself with the Presidential candidate of the NNPP, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso.”
“Regrettably for Ganduje, he has lost his grip on Kano State and has consequently lost relevance. As a result, Kwankwaso stands a good chance of being appointed as the defence minister.”
While the official list of ministers from Tinubu is eagerly being expected, sources within the presidency and the All Progressives Congress leadership have hinted at the possibility of certain persons, including Kwankwaso assuming roles in the government.
