An outspoken Yoruba man in Kano State and prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Seyi Olorunsola, has called on politicians criticising the appointment of former Speaker of the Kano State Assembly, Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, as Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, to shelve their unpatriotic ideas and be ready to offer him useful advice and information necessary for his success in the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

This comes as the APC stalwart also stated that there is a need to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Hon. Ata, adding that his appointment would make the party more popular in Kano Central Federal Constituency, from where he hails.

He emphasised that loyalists and supporters were extremely pleased with President Tinubu’s decision, despite the views of some politicians who criticised Hon. Ata’s appointment.

Hon. Olorunsola, who made this statement while addressing Hon. Ata’s political associates in anticipation of his visit to Kano tomorrow, disclosed that they were not disturbed by the unnecessary casting and campaigns of calumny against Hon. Ata. He added that plans were underway to give him a rousing homecoming after his appointment.

According to him, “You can see this gathering; these party loyalists cut across all ethnicities in the state, comprising both indigenes and non-indigenes, who all believe his appointment will also reinforce Mr. President’s renewed hope agenda. The people of Kano State are in high expectations and resolved to support the new Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, and provide him with everything necessary for his success in this new role.”

His loyalists and party supporters are set to give Hon. Ata a rousing homecoming, as anticipation of his arrival has thrown the ancient city into full preparation.

Residents who admire his numerous achievements during his tenure as Speaker of the State Assembly continue to pray for his success and positive impact on the country’s teeming masses.

Hon. Olorunsola stated, “The news of his first homecoming since the appointment has electrified Kano, with the city preparing to celebrate this momentous occasion with a flurry of activity and displays of pride.”

He emphasised, “As Kano gears up for Ata’s arrival, streets and neighbourhoods are vibrant and alive with decorations, signifying more than just a ceremonial welcome.”

Olorunsola also noted, “Banners, billboards, and posters featuring Rt. Hon. Ata and President Tinubu adorn thoroughfares and major gathering points, amplifying the atmosphere of jubilation and unity.”

The extensive preparations underscore the admiration and respect many in Kano hold for the new minister. His appointment by the President has stirred optimism and enthusiasm across political lines.

Olorunsola further highlighted that the response to Ata’s appointment has been notably unifying, with praise from various political circles and ethnic groups in the state.

Local political analysts have observed that Ata’s leadership style and grassroots connections have earned him widespread admiration, positioning him as a unifying force in Kano.

His role as minister is anticipated to bridge political divides, fostering a renewed sense of collaboration and shared goals among Kano’s diverse communities.

“Ata has a unique way of reaching people at the grassroots level, and his ability to connect across various ethnic backgrounds is what truly makes him stand out,” remarked Ahmed Garba, a well-known local political analyst.

This homecoming event is set to unite people from all backgrounds, symbolising the unity that Kano needs at this time.

The appointment of Ata, a respected figure with a reputation for inclusivity, has also stirred the opposition. Members of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and other opposition groups have been visibly impacted by the momentum surrounding the new minister.

Political observers note that Ata’s influence and the respect he commands across Kano’s political landscape could have far-reaching effects, especially as the nation approaches the 2027 elections.