Kano Politics: The Unseen Forces Against Minister Ata’s Benevolence
By Adamu Aminu
Many divine and physical evidences abound to affirm that God Almighty does not look at people or issues through the same prism as human beings, particularly when it comes to granting power to whom He wishes at any time of day or night.
We, as human beings, give primacy or priority to appearance or outward qualities, or simply look at a person’s nobility before giving them value. But God’s power surpasses human imagination when it comes to His will of uplifting human trajectories and granting to whom He likes.
Every aspect of life comes with paradoxical effects, and every stardom is attached to various challenges.
Rising to prominence, particularly in the political arena, often comes with its share of trials. This doesn’t seem to come as a surprise to those who affirm that God doesn’t consult any mortal being before stamping His divine gavel in approval.
Recall when Rt. Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata was appointed Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development in October 2024. Anonymous detractors sought to undermine him with baseless petitions. Yet, their efforts proved futile—his integrity and reputation remain unshaken, and his dedication to service continues to inspire.
Recently, Minister Ata extended a gesture of goodwill, offering financial support to former APC lawmakers, ex-vice chairmen, secretaries, and councillors in all 44 local governments of Kano. His intention was simple: to ease their burdens in a time of need.
Many welcomed this act of kindness with gratitude. However, just as the beneficiaries prepared to receive the aid, an unexpected circular surfaced, cautioning them against accepting it.
This unexpected turn of events raises questions about the motivations behind it. As the African proverb reminds us, “Nothing happens without a reason.” Who stands to gain from obstructing this goodwill? Is this a clash of political interests or the machinations of a few?
Minister Ata’s compassion speaks for itself. Despite the resistance, his commitment to uplifting others remains steadfast. His generosity reflects a leader who governs with empathy, one who understands that true service transcends politics.
The APC, as a broad coalition, naturally harbors diverse perspectives. Yet, the actions of a minority should not eclipse the party’s collective purpose.
As this situation unfolds, wisdom calls for restraint and dialogue. Let differences be settled with maturity, not division. In the words of another timeless saying, “When elephants fight, the grass suffers.”
May the spirit of unity prevail, and may Minister Ata’s kindness serve as a beacon, guiding Kano’s political landscape toward harmony and shared progress. Ultimately, it is through unity and cooperation that Kano will truly prosper, and Minister Ata’s efforts can be a significant step in that direction.
Adamu Aminu, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of State for Housing & Urban Development, writes from Kano.
