Confusion in Presidency over minister’s exit

But Weekly Trust obtained a copy of a letter which reveals that Suleiman actually resigned. The two-page document, dated yesterday December 2nd 2011, and signed by the former minister, reads in part: “It is therefore with a heavy heart and deep sense of responsibility that I seek Your Excellency’s kind permission and approval to formally […]

But Weekly Trust obtained a copy of a letter which reveals that Suleiman actually resigned. The two-page document, dated yesterday December 2nd 2011, and signed by the former minister, reads in part: “It is therefore with a heavy heart and deep sense of responsibility that I seek Your Excellency’s kind permission and approval to formally disengage and resign from the Federal Executive Council and as Minister of the government of the federation with effect today Friday, 2nd December 2011.”

 

Interestingly, the Presidency’s statement glossed over Suleiman’s resignation, even as a copy of an acknowledgment of the resignation, signed by Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Anyim Pius Anyim, is in possession of Weekly Trust. Anyim’s letter said the President has accepted Suleiman’s resignation as a minister.

When Weekly Trust contacted the former minister’s media aide, Bisi Adekunle, he said his boss actually resigned to pursue his political ambition. Earlier in the week, the Daily Trust published a story about the support Suleiman may be receiving from the Presidency in his bid at the Sokoto governorship.

Suleiman’s foray there may cause major upsets, as current Governor Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko is said to have fallen out of favour with President Jonathan when the PDP didn’t clinch a majority vote in the state in the last presidential polls. Other grouses may be related to Sokoto delegates who voted for Atiku Abubakar in the PDP’s presidential primaries, as well as Wamakko’s perceived support in Waziri Tabuwal’s ascension to Speaker, House of Reps.

Speaking to Weekly Trust, Governor Wamakko said that his political machinery is on a sound course ahead of the elections in March next year when he will be seeking a second four-year mandate. When asked whether he is jolted by the entrance of Suleiman and others into the race, he said: “These people have the right to contest for governorship and I wish them well.”