Insiders shared their varying opinion about the Minister of Women Affairs and social Development, Aisha Alhassan’s statement about supporting Atiku in 2019, even as she reiterated that there is no going back on her statement. Most believe there is nothing wrong in her publicly expressing her loyalty, but despite this, according to some her action is sacrilegious, hence she should take the honourable path.

An Insider shared that “I don’t see why it’s surpring to anyone. Aisha Alhassan and Atiku’s relationship is very open. He has tweeted that he supported her governorship quest because he wants to see more women in government. Not even President Buhari will be surprised by this.”

“It’s simply called LOYALTY in politics and I don’t think there is anything wrong in restating one’s loyalty to a benefactor notwithstanding the situation and level one has attained on the ladder. Mama Taraba declaring support for her benefactor is not misplaced especially when the head of the government she presently serves under has not indicated interest to run for a second term, even if the sitting President declares to return for a second term, she cannot be denied her right to support whoever she wants. Where is freedom of choice? It’s rather unfortunate that such loyalty is so uncommon in present day politics, hence the frenzy and attacks her statement has generated on the social media,” said an Insider with the Labour Party.

“Well, she has a right to chose whom to support since we are in a free world” said an Insider in the APC. He continued that “But that said, we run an executive system of presidency not a Westminster styled system, meaning ministers are in position at the pleasure of the President who specifically appointed them. Their loyalty is to him and the constitution, and if they have any reasons to no longer believe in his vision, leadership or direction, they shouldn’t even wait to be sacked, they should resign,” he concluded.

Another Insider with the APC in similar vein stated that “I think declaring support for Atiku Abubakar shows her as a loyal person. She is loyal to Atiku, and her serving in Buhari’s administration hasn’t altered that loyalty. However, it is doubtful that she’s an honourable person, given that she clearly does not believe in Buhari. One would resign from an administration she has no belief in. She shouldn’t wait to get booted out. She should resign.”

“It is unsurprising that Mama Taraba said this as many quarters believe that she was nominated by Atiku for the ministerial position. However, President Buhari has to consider what this means for her ability to do the job; her loyalty to him for the remainder of the tenure. Based on his consideration, he may decide if her services as a minister are worthwhile,” said another Insider.

“Mama Taraba has shown political naivety, and if luck is not on her side, she has commited political suicide,” stated by another Insider.

“That is insubordination of the highest order, the undermining of the century as far as I’m concerned and if I were the President, I will sack her instantly,” an Insider with the PDP stated. He continued that “If you are not happy about things in a government, the honourable thing to do is resign and you may then start criticising the government or its policies or decisions. What she did is sacrilegious to say the least,” he said.

These are members of the Political Insiders (Not all of whom participated in this issue)

Bukola Ogunyemi (NA), Amara Nwamkpa (NA), Cheta Nwanze (NA), Seun Onigbinde (NA), Clarence Onyekwere (NA), Babatunde Ajileye (NA), Mark Amaza (NA), Saratu Abiola (NA), Henry Okelue (APC), Prince Deji Adeyanju (NA), John Paul Akinduro (LP), Ebubedike Akabua (NA), Ikemesit Effiong (NA), Saatah Nubari (NA), Chinedu Ekeeke (NA), Abdul Mahmud (NA), Tunji Andrews (NA), Ileowo Kikiowo (APC), Ikenna Okonkwo (NA), Stanley Azuakola (NA), Gbenga Olorunpomi (APC), Rinsola Abiola (APC), Ayobami Oyalowo (APC), Oluseun Odewale (APC), Anthony Ehilebo (PDP), Ohimai Amaize (NA), Bimbo Oke (PDP), Abigail Anaba (NA), Tony ‘Pox’ Iribor (NA), Michael Orodare (LP), Henry Nwazuruahu (PDP), Ojugo ‘Ojay’ Onyelukachukwu (PDP), Viola Okoli (PDP), Ariyo Dare Atoye (PDP), Oraye Franklin (PDP), Lai Labode (NA), Akaebube (APGA), Aziza Uko (NA), Kayode Ajulo (LP).

Editor