Gwarzo Cautions Against Criticism of Tinubu Over His Dismissal

The Renewed Hope Ambassadors Forum (RHAF) has called on Abdullahi T. Gwarzo, the former Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, to cease publicly criticizing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu after his recent removal from office.

Gwarzo was one of five ministers dismissed in a cabinet reshuffle by President Tinubu last month. In a BBC Hausa interview, Gwarzo claimed that his dismissal was politically motivated and criticized Tinubu’s appointment of Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Atta as his successor, suggesting instead that Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, the APC’s 2023 gubernatorial candidate in Kano, should have been chosen. He also shared private details of a conversation with the president regarding his removal.

In response, RHAF condemned Gwarzo’s comments as disrespectful, accusing him of undermining the president and violating the trust expected of a former minister. The forum pointed out that Section 171 of the 1999 Constitution grants the president the authority to appoint and remove ministers, and Gwarzo’s statements were seen as a challenge to this constitutional right.

Kano State RHAF Coordinator, Comrade Danjuma Usman Gwale, expressed disappointment that Gwarzo’s remarks were both inappropriate and insulting. He further criticized Gwarzo for revealing private discussions with the president, which he said reflected a lack of understanding of the consequences of sharing confidential information.

RHAF emphasized that other dismissed ministers had handled their removal with dignity, showing gratitude and respect for the president’s decisions. The forum suggested that Gwarzo’s response indicated an entitlement mindset and a lack of understanding of the privilege of serving in office.

RHAF urged Gwarzo to stop his public criticisms or face possible repercussions, reinforcing that the conduct of dismissed ministers should reflect respect for the office of the president.