The recent appointment of Senator Suleiman Abdulrahman-Kawu, a member of the opposition New Nigeria Peoples Party, as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream) has generated reactions.
Abdulrahman-Kawu, representing the Kano-South Senatorial District, replaces the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, who passed away on July 26.
While the appointment has sparked controversy, with critics suggesting that a southerner should have been selected to replace Ubah, supporters argue that the decision is a strategic move for both the All Progressives Congress and President Bola Tinubu, according to Nigerian Tribune.
Senator Karimi Sunday, Chairman of the Senate Services, defended the choice, describing it as a political strategy aimed at advancing the APC’s interests in Kano and beyond.
Speaking on Tuesday, Sunday explained that appointing an experienced NNPP member like Abdulrahman-Kawu could help the ruling party make inroads in a state that the APC is keen to influence.
He further emphasized that the decision is aligned with the broader political goals of President Tinubu.
Senator Sunday also pointed out that no region had been marginalized in the distribution of committee roles, noting, “No zone is marginalized as we speak.” He underscored Abdulrahman-Kawu’s vast legislative experience, highlighting his tenure as a three-time former member of the House of Representatives, former Minority Leader, and presidential aide.
According to Sunday, the appointment not only brings valuable experience to the role but also carries long-term political advantages for the APC, strengthening the party’s influence both within and outside Kano.
He stated, “It’s not every time we should oppose decisions. Some actions, like this case, are strategic.
“Kano is in the opposition (NNPP), but it is a state that the APC wishes to control. By appointing an experienced NNPP member to chair the committee on downstream, the APC is making a move to woo the opposition in Kano and garner support for the party.
“This decision is beneficial for the ruling party and for the political goodwill of Mr. President.”