President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday, July 30, held a private meeting at the State House with Hon. Abdulmumin Jibrin, a close ally of New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
Jibrin, who represents Kiru/Bebeji federal constituency in Kano State and previously chaired the House of Representatives Appropriation Committee, is known for his longstanding loyalty to Kwankwaso.
Speaking with journalists after the closed-door meeting, Jibrin responded cautiously when asked if he was planning to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
“I do not think it is time for that conversation, but everything is open, and it’s a possibility,” he said. “The most important thing is stability of the country; the unity of the country. And I believe that when we get to the bridge, we’ll cross it.”
He said his presence at the Villa should not come as a surprise, given the history between President Tinubu and Senator Kwankwaso.
“I came to see Mr. President, and, of course, the long term friendship that the President has also enjoyed with the national leader of the NNPP, Rabbiu Musa Kwankwaso,” he explained.
“So I do not think it’s anything surprising to see me here to see the President, to greet him, check on him, and also discuss some national issues that I believe is in the interest of the people of this country.”
READ ALSO: 2027: Nothing Strange About Tinubu, Kwankwaso Meeting— Presidential Aide
When asked whether the visit was a peace mission, especially in light of recent tensions between Kwankwaso and the Presidency, Jibrin said both men remained focused on the nation’s wellbeing.
“Well, both of them are very experienced politicians. The President is a first class politician,” he said. “Of course, the national leader of the NNPP is also a thoroughbred politician, and I believe that both of them are committed to the peace, unity and prosperity of Nigeria.”
Senator Kwankwaso had recently criticised the Tinubu administration, accusing it of favouring the South in the distribution of infrastructure projects.
Addressing the criticism, Jibrin said opinions should be taken in stride.
“Every leader does his best, and it depends on how you want to rate him. You can decide to see the cup half full, or you look at the cup half empty,” he said.
“You can decide to access someone and say ‘see, you’ve done well, but there’s still much to be done.’ And there’s so many ways that you can do an assessment.
“But I also believe that everyone is entitled to his opinion. And it can always just contribute to deepening the discourse, and sometimes it might turn out to be a blessing in disguise.”