"Tinubu, President-elect, meets Kwankwaso in Paris, presents two ministerial options"

In a significant development, there have been claims suggesting that the President-elect, Bola Tinubu,

engaged in discussions with the former Governor of Kano State, Rabiu Kwankwaso, during a meeting held on Tuesday. This meeting, which took place in Paris, France, was aimed at strengthening ties between the two political figures and seeking Kwankwaso's support for Tinubu's political ambitions.

 

In addition to Kwankwaso, the former Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, was also present at the meeting, along with other political personalities. These discussions were considered crucial for Tinubu's aspirations, as they sought to foster collaboration and urged Kwankwaso to mobilize his political associates to form a united front.

 

During the meeting, it was reported that Tinubu presented Kwankwaso with options for ministerial positions, specifically in the Ministries of Agriculture or Education. However, as of the time of reporting, it remains uncertain whether Kwankwaso will accept the offer to serve as a minister or pass on the opportunity to one of his loyalists. The outcome of Kwankwaso's decision is eagerly awaited.

 

Notably, the meeting was graced by the presence of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Honorable Femi Gbajabiamila. Kwankwaso was accompanied by Honorable Abdulmumin Jibrin, an elected member from Kano.

 

Aside from ministerial positions, the discussions encompassed various subjects, including the enduring friendship between Tinubu and Kwankwaso, national unity, development priorities, upcoming National Assembly contests, and Tinubu's vision for a government of national unity, in which Kwankwaso has expressed interest in participating.

 

Furthermore, Tinubu hinted at the possibility of reconciling the strained relationship between Kwankwaso and the outgoing Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje. The animosity between the two politicians arose following Ganduje's succession as governor. Tinubu's victory in the presidential election, despite Kwankwaso's win in Kano State, underscores the strategic importance of maintaining positive relations in the North West region, where Tinubu garnered a significant portion of his total votes.

 

Regarding the meeting between Kwankwaso and former Emir Sanusi, the specifics of their discussion have not been disclosed to the public. However, it is believed that the conversation revolved around recent political developments in Kano. Speculation suggests that the Governor-elect, Abba Yusuf, may revisit the dethronement of Sanusi as the Emir of Kano. It is worth noting that Kwankwaso played a crucial role in Sanusi's appointment as the Emir of Kano, and their longstanding relationship adds weight to the significance of their meeting.

 

Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria in preparation for his inauguration on May 29. His engagement in productive discussions and pursuit of support from influential figures in Kano indicate the importance he places on the region's political landscape.