Jaafar Jaafar: Mustapha Not Trusted Even as Farm Manager, Yet Tipped for Top Office
By Ahmad Tijjani Abdul
KANO — Daily Nigeria publisher, Jaafar Jaafar, has raised fresh concerns over the reported nomination of Mustapha Kwankwaso as a running mate, questioning his suitability for high public office based on his alleged past roles within his father Business empire.
Jaafar, in a strongly worded statement in Hausa that was shared on his verified Facebook page, argued that Mustapha had not been entrusted with meaningful responsibilities even in the private or informal structures linked to former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
“Even the leader himself, in all his businesses, I have not seen any of them being managed by Mustapha,” he said.
He added: “Not even as a farm manager, yet today he is being positioned in a role where he would manage the wealth and lives of millions of people.”
Jaafar maintained that the office of deputy governor should not be treated as a political reward, stressing its constitutional weight and responsibility in governance.
“The office of deputy governor is not a ceremonial position. It is the second-highest executive office in the state, and its occupant must be someone tested and trusted,” he stated.
He further questioned the rationale behind elevating individuals without what he described as adequate administrative exposure.
“We have had people with years of administrative and political experience serving in that capacity. This is not an office for experimentation,” he added.
While acknowledging his personal relationship with Mustapha, Jaafar insisted his comments were driven by public interest rather than personal grievance.
“He respects me and even called me while I was writing this, but this is not about personal relations. It is about governance and the future of millions,” he said.
He warned that poor judgment in selecting a deputy governor could have serious implications for governance stability.
“In trying to fix one problem, we must not create a bigger one for the entire system,” he cautioned.
Jaafar urged political actors to prioritize competence and experience over loyalty in selecting leaders for sensitive public offices.