The Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, was absent from the 38th State Executive Council meeting held on March 12, a development that has generated discussions on the ongoing political uncertainties within the state government administrative machinery
The meeting was presided over by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and attended by members of the state executive council, but the deputy governor’s seat was reportedly vacant throughout the meeting despite the official notice of the meeting.
His absence from this critical state engagement, was believed to be as a result of the lingering political disagreement that emerged, following the decision of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and several political allies, who moved to the All Progressives Congress.
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While some commissioners who did not follow the governor in the political move resigned their positions honourably and voluntarily, in the face of the political realignment, the deputy governor refused to follow the move, despite occupying two critical positions, which included that of Deputy Governor, and as Commissioner for Higher education.
The situation has triggered strong reactions within government and outside government, with some officials openly suggesting that a deputy governor who does not share the same political platform with the governor should honourably consider stepping down, in the interest of the State.
The development has also fueled renewed discussions around the impeachment proceedings initiated against the deputy governor by the Kano State House of Assembly.
Several political commentators say the deputy governor’s continued stay in office despite the political realignment has created an administrative vacuum within the state’s executive governance machinery, raising questions about patriotism and interest of the Kano people at heart, rather than promoting self serving interest, an action which is likely to stagnate governance process, for continued stability in the administration.
According to the opinion of some Kano residents, the Deputy Governor should be matured and responsible enough, to at least resign his position as Commissioner for Higher education, to allow the smooth running of the Ministry in the interest of the State and its people.
As of the time of this report, neither the deputy governor’s office nor the state government had issued an official statement regarding his absence from the March 12th Executive Council meeting.