Kaduna govt denies sealing Arewa House ahead of Atiku’s meeting
The Kaduna State Government has refuted claims that it sealed the Arewa House in Kaduna to obstruct a planned consultation between former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Northern stakeholders.
Ahmed Maiyaki, the state’s Commissioner for Information and Culture, characterized the allegations as unfounded. He emphasized that the Kaduna State Government was not involved in any actions regarding Arewa House, which he noted is not state property but rather belongs to the Federal Government through Ahmadu Bello University.
“We do not own Arewa House. It is the property of the Federal Government, owned by Ahmadu Bello University,” Maiyaki stated.
In addition, he rejected insinuations that the government was trying to hinder opposition activities, asserting that political parties are permitted to utilize state-owned facilities, provided they adhere to the requisite procedures.
Maiyaki accused those disseminating the allegations of attempting to undermine the reputation of Governor Uba Sani, whom he described as a committed advocate for democracy and civil society.
Earlier, Atiku, who is the presidential candidate for the African Democratic Congress, accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) government of sealing the historic venue, which his campaign team had suggested for a consultation with Northern stakeholders set for Thursday.
In a statement issued by Phrank Shaibu, the Director of Strategic Communication for Atiku’s campaign, the former vice president decried the action as indicative of a broader pattern aimed at obstructing his political engagements. The ADC further contended that limiting access to Arewa House for the planned meeting represents a violation of the shared heritage of Northern Nigeria.
