Planned Shadow Govt:  APC Seeking Relevance In Kano – Govt

By Ayodele Oni

Kano State Government has reacted to a move by the All Progressive Congress (APC) to form a shadow government in the state.

National Chairman of the APC Patriotic Volunteers, Usman Alhaji, announced the group’s intention to form a shadow government in Kano State.

The State Government described the move  as a desperate and politically motivated scheme with serious social and legal implications for the entire state and Nigeria’s democratic system.

A statement on Sunday by the commissioner for information, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, reminded the APC in the state that forming a government within a government is entirely illegal and unconstitutional in Nigeria.

“A shadow government, as practiced in the United Kingdom, exists within a parliamentary system where opposition parties appoint ‘shadow ministers’ to scrutinize the ruling government.

“However, Nigeria operates a presidential system, which neither recognizes nor supports such a structure outside the institutional framework of the law.

“The government emphasized that democracy does not permit anyone to lose their sense of judgment simply because they have lost relevance within their party’s political structure.

“The right to freedom of expression does not grant anyone the liberty to make reckless statements or take actions that undermine constitutional governance and the sovereignty of an elected government.

“Contemplating the formation of a shadow government is further proof of the APC’s continued plot to destabilize Kano State and create chaos.

“Such actions will not be tolerated by the Kano State Government. The government stands ready to take decisive action against any individual or group involved in acts capable of disturbing the relative peace in the state, regardless of their social status or perceived political influence, in accordance with the laws of Kano State and Nigeria.

“The APC, as a party in Kano State, has reportedly lost its political relevance and influence. This latest move by some elements within the party is seen as a desperate attempt to remain relevant after its overwhelming rejection at the polls.

“Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration was duly elected by the people of Kano State and has, within a short period, recorded remarkable achievements in developmental projects and policies aimed at improving the lives of the people.

“Institutional reforms in governance have been a major focus of the administration, with policies such as non-interference in the fight against corruption and an open procurement process that aligns with best practices in accountability, transparency, and openness.

“The people of Kano State have embraced a government committed to good governance and sustainable development. No amount of political maneuvering or sinister plots can distract Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf from delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of Kano State.

“Consequently, the government warns that reckless and unconstitutional declarations will not change the reality that the APC has been rejected in Kano State.

“Instead of making self-deceiving threats, the APC Patriotic Volunteers should respect the democratic will of the people and allow Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration to continue delivering on its mandate.”