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'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - The Senior Special Assistant on Public Enlightenment to the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Chief Oliver Okpala, has condemned what he described as a smear campaign and acts of vendetta against the APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, by the Chairman of Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC), Muhuyi Magaji Rimingado.
In a strongly worded statement, Okpala accused Rimingado and agents of the Kano State Government of orchestrating unnecessary antagonism and victimization against Ganduje, particularly following his recent appointment as Chairman of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Okpala said the era of politics fueled by bitterness, vendettas, and divisive tactics is long gone, urging politicians like Rimingado to embrace political decorum and sanity.
Okpala criticized Rimingado’s recent threat to prosecute Ganduje for alleged corruption, describing it as a laughable attempt to malign a statesman who has made significant contributions to Nigeria's development. He noted that such baseless accusations are the product of personal animosity and political mischief.
"Suddenly, Rimingado has mischievously found his voice and remembered to threaten prosecution against Ganduje. This is laughable coming from someone who himself has a history of corruption allegations, arrest, detention, and removal from office," Okpala said.
He added that Rimingado’s return to office should have been an opportunity to demonstrate integrity, but instead, he has chosen to pursue a personal vendetta against Ganduje, who he described as a "shining star in Nigeria's political space."
Okpala praised Ganduje’s track record, noting his two-term tenure as Governor of Kano State, during which he implemented impactful projects and policies. He also lauded President Tinubu for recognizing Ganduje’s contributions by appointing him as FAAN Chairman.
"Ganduje’s appointment by President Tinubu is a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service and nation-building. His achievements as Governor of Kano State continue to speak for him, and Nigerians should expect significant improvements in the aviation sector under his leadership," Okpala stated.
Okpala urged Rimingado and his sponsors to desist from using their positions for personal vendettas, emphasizing that public office is a sacred trust meant for service, not a tool for antagonism.
"There is no basis for comparing Rimingado to Ganduje in terms of age, education, political achievements, or contributions to nation-building. Rimingado should use his position responsibly and stop acting as an instrument of political witch-hunts," Okpala advised.
He further cautioned against the resurgence of divisive politics, saying it is detrimental to Nigeria’s progress. "Rimingado must have a rethink and abandon his divisive antics. The APC government under President Tinubu prioritizes unity and focused governance over rancor and bitterness," he added.
Okpala commended President Tinubu for his visionary leadership and commitment to recognizing excellence, describing Ganduje’s appointment as FAAN Chairman as well-deserved. He urged Nigerians to disregard the smear campaigns and focus on the progress being made under the Tinubu administration.
"As Ganduje takes on his new role, Nigerians can expect transformative leadership in the aviation sector, consistent with his legacy of excellence. Rimingado and his ilk should focus on contributing positively rather than spreading antagonism and bad blood," Okpala concluded.
