2023: NNPP Gubernatorial Candidate, Others Shun Health Debate In Kano

The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) gubernatorial candidate in Kano, Abba Kabir Yusuf has boycotted the gubernatorial candidate debate on health matters organised by the Kano branch of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in the state on Thursday.

Yusuf, popularly called Abba Gida Gida, did not also send a representative to the debate held at Bristol Palace in Kano on Thursday.

However, speaking at the beginning of the programme, a former Commissioner of Health and member of the Kwankwasiyya movement, Dr Abubakar Labaran gave an excuse on behalf of Yusuf, saying that he was unavoidably absent, alongside his running mate, Abdulsalam.

According to him, the governorship candidate received the invitation letter for the debate late while he was already out of time.

Labaran also told the organisers of the debate that he wanted to represent the NNPP governorship candidate but the NMA did not oblige, insisting that a candidate or his running mate must participate in the program.

Also, Sadiq Aminu Wali, candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Bala Muhammad Gwagwarwa, governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) were also absent at the debate.

Another candidate who was absent was Sha’aban Sharada, a candidate of the Action Democratic Party (ADP). He was represented by his running mate, Rabi’u Bako.

However, Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, Kano state Deputy Governor and governorship candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC) attended the debate.

Others who graced the occasion include Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil, governorship candidate for African Democratic Congress (ADC), Bashir Ishaq Bashir, candidate of Labour Party (LP), representative of ADP candidate, Bako and Salihu Tanko Yakasai, gubernatorial candidate of People’s Redemption Party (PRP).

During the debate, all five candidates present pledged to fix the challenges of the health sector in the state.

Giving different approaches and agendas in reforming the health sectors if elected as governors in 2023, the candidates also highlighted some programmes to be put in place to improve the healthcare system in the state.