By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano
The Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi Ata, has described as untrue media reports that he threatened to leave the All Progressive Congress (APC) if the state party chairman, Prince Abdullahi Abba, is not removed from office.
In a statement on Sunday, titled: “Clarification on the Misrepresentation of Minister of State, Housing & Urban Development, Rt. Hon. Abdullahi Ata’s Remarks in Kano,” Ata insisted that he was quoted out of context.
The Statement signed by his Media Aide, Seyi Olorunsola reads: “The Office of the Minister of State for Housing & Urban Development, Rt. Hon. Abdullahi Ata wishes to categorically refute the misinterpretations and misleading narratives arising from his recent engagements in Kano State, particularly his interactions with the APC caucus in Fagge Local Government, Area, former members of the Kano State House of Assembly and social media practitioners.
“Contrary to various media reports circulating over the weekend, the Minister did not threaten to leave the All Progressives Congress (APC) if the current party leadership in Kano State is retained.
” These reports have taken his statements out of context, presenting a distorted view that seeks to sow division within the party.
“During the APC caucus meeting in Fagge and subsequent interactions with the former members of the State House of Assembly and media professionals, Rt. Hon. Abdullahi Ata reiterated the need for unity and a collective effort to strengthen the APC ahead of the 2027 General Elections.”
Ata emphasized that the party must work as a cohesive force to ensure the continued success of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibril and other party stakeholders in Kano State.
According to the Statement, Ata’s remarks were centred on the need for political actors to uphold values of respect, faith, and unity, particularly in the wake of the 2023 gubernatorial elections in Kano State and the subsequent Supreme Court judgment.
He pointed out that leaders who engage in divisive rhetoric, undermine religious and traditional institutions, and fail to promote party cohesion risk alienating party members and jeopardizing future electoral victories.
He made it clear that those who challenge the divine will not be tolerated in society but should be shown the exit door through lawful and constitutional means.
“Rt. Hon. Abdullahi Ata, as a staunch party loyalist and a champion of peace and justice, remains firmly committed to the APC and its leadership.
” Any suggestion that he is considering leaving the party is completely false and unfounded. His position has always been that for APC to regain control of Kano State and consolidate its national strength, it must prioritize unity, fairness, and inclusivity in its leadership structure.
“The Minister therefore is taking this opportunity to call on media practitioners to uphold the principles of ethical journalism by ensuring accurate reporting, avoiding sensationalism, and providing context in their narratives. Misleading interpretations of political discourse only serve to heighten tensions and create unnecessary discord.
” Rt. Hon. Abdullahi Ata further reaffirmed his unwavering support for the APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibril, and most importantly, President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for their roles in fostering unity and strengthening the party’s position nationwide.
“The focus remains on ensuring a resounding APC victory in 2027, including reclaiming the Kano State Government House from the opposition. The Minister calls on all party members, stakeholders, and the general public to disregard any misrepresentation of his remarks and remain steadfast in their support for the party’s growth and success,” the statement added.