PDP supporters set to relive Aminu Kano’s memories

Memories of the late Aminu Kano have resonated in Kano as supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are now putting finishing touches on the adornment of his trademark white dress and red cap on May 29, when governor-elect Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso will take over the reins of power from Ibrahim Shekarau.

The supporters of the party are now spending their hard-earned money to purchase the traditional red cap and white agbada (flowing dress) popularised by the late sage, who identified with those regarded as the commoners or talakawas, as they are known in Hausa, of Kano city.

The PDP supporters, who number in their thousands, claim they can see all the virtues of the founder of the defunct People’s Redemption Party (PRP) in Mr Kwankwaso.

They have, therefore, resolved that come May 29, they will march to the venue where power will be ceded to Mr Kwankwaso as governor of Kano State. They also plan to wear green shoes to remind all that the PDP is now fully in control of affairs in the state.

A visit to Kurmi, Katin Kwari and Sabon Gari markets, where the dealers in the various materials are found, showed that, since the emergence of Mr Kwankwaso as the governor-elect, business has been flourishing.

Ibrahim Garba is one of the major dealers in the red cap; he is happy with the level of patronage he now has.

“There has been a turnaround in this business since Kwankwaso won the governorship election. It started picking up when President Goodluck Jonathan visited Kano State during campaign period. We have two types of the cap: one is sold for N500 and the other N5000, which used to be sold for N200 and N3000, respectively. We are currently witnessing high demand as the swearing date draws nearer and we have short supply.”

Rufai Ahmed, a staunch supporter of the late Aminu Kano, shares the same view with many of the PDP followers. He believes that Mr Kwankwaso’s incoming administration will carry the downtrodden along.

“This outfit symbolised late Mallam Aminu Kano of blessed memory; he stood for the emancipation of the common man and they share the same dream with the government of Kwankwaso. He has done it before and trust that he will do it again. Because his government will create job opportunity for our youth; the free feeding of primary school pupils, free anti–natal care and, above all, we Kano people will now feel the presence of the federal government.”

Garba Gwammaja is the brain behind the idea of using the swearing-in ceremony to remember the politician who was popular among the ordinary people. Mr Gwammaja also likens Aminu Kano’s virtue with that of Mr Kwankwaso.

“I’m glad to let you know that this my project started like joke but you will be surprised that today in Kano in virtually every household you will find someone that has purchased this regalia and is waiting for the swearing-in of our able governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.”