As a chieftaincy title conferred on him continues to tear Shinkafi community apart, former Aviation Minister, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode has thanked those who made his seven-day stay in Zamfara State a worthwhile one.
In a series of tweets on Friday morning, the controversial ex-minister revealed how he was given a benefitting reception by Governor Bello Matawalle, and traditional ruler as well as the youths of Shinkafi.
The Emir of Shinkafi, Alhaji Muhammad Makwashi, had conferred the title of Sadaukin Shinkafi on the ex-minister.
However, Fani-Kayode refused to comment on the controversy generated by the conferment of the title.
The Herald reported that a group, Concerned Citizens of Shinkafi gave the Emir of the community 24 hour ultimatum to withdraw the traditional title or face legal action.
At a press conference in Kaduna State on Wednesday, the aggrieved indigenes of Shinkafi said Makwashi took a unilateral decision which does not reflect the wishes of the people, as Fani Kayode does not respect leaders of the North and its people.
Sarkin Shanun Shinkafi, Dr.Suleiman Shinkafi who addressed the press, said he and 7 other title holders from the emirate resolved to resign their appointment due to the unpopular decision of the emir.
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But tweeting on Friday, Fani-Kayode wrote, “Just got back from a 7 day visit to my brother Gov. Bello Mohammad Matawalle of Zamfara state. I had a great time. I thank him &the people of Zamfara for receiving me so warmly & treating me such love, warmth, respect & kindness. Matawalle is a true friend & a bridge-builder .
“I would also like to thank His Royal Highnesss, Alhaji Muhammad Makwashi, the Emir of Shinkafi, for conferring me with the ancient title of Sadaukin Shinkafi (meaning the warrior/hero of Shinkafi). This is a great honor which I cherish & I am deeply humbled & moved by it.
“I also thank His Royal Highness, Alhaji Garba Muhammad Tambari, the Emir of Maradun, for receiving me and my delegation so warmly and for organising a wonderful reception & sumptuous lunch for us at his palace which was attended by hundreds.
“Finally I thank all the political leaders like Alh. Sani Shinkafi who is the Wambai Shinkafi, the religious leaders, the youth groups, the NGOs, members of the business community & the people of Zamfara state themselves for showing me so much love & kindness during my visit.
“I have written an essay on my stay in the state, all that I saw, all that we did, all my thoughts and all that we are trying to achieve by joining hands and building bridges with leaders like Matawalle and that essay will be published on Sunday.”