- Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf denies rumors of discord with Senator Kwankwaso, emphasizing their strong relationship and his loyalty to the leader
- Yusuf criticizes the “stand on your own” campaign as insulting, reaffirming his commitment to Kwankwaso’s support and the Kwankwasiyya movement
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has dismissed claims of discord with his political mentor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement.
Addressing journalists in Kano, Yusuf stressed that his relationship with Kwankwaso remains solid and respectful, contrary to rumors of tension.
Recently, speculation has grown within the Kwankwasiyya movement and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) that Kwankwaso exerts undue influence over Yusuf’s administration. Critics allege that Kwankwaso effectively governs “by proxy.”
This sentiment was amplified by Aliyu Sani Madakin-Gini, a House of Representatives member who recently parted ways with Kwankwaso. He suggested that disputes over a drugs contract and a scholarship scheme funded by the state had strained relations between Yusuf and Kwankwaso.
Yusuf rejected these claims, reaffirming his loyalty and autonomy in governance. “There is no truth in the rumors of a misunderstanding between us,” Yusuf said. “For 40 years, we have worked closely without conflict. To suggest Kwankwaso controls me is unfair,” he asserted. Yusuf added that he would not betray the man who had consistently supported him.
Recently, a faction within the NNPP, “Abba Tsaya da Kafarka” (meaning “Abba, stand on your own”), has urged Yusuf to act independently of Kwankwaso. Yusuf called this campaign an “insult,” emphasizing that loyalty should not be repaid with betrayal. “This ‘stand on your own’ slogan is the greatest insult I have faced as governor,” he remarked. “What has Kwankwaso done to deserve this treatment?”
The NNPP leadership in the state recently suspended two officials—Secretary to the State Government Abdullahi Baffa Bichi and Commissioner of Transportation Muhammad Diggol—accusing them of supporting this movement. Both officials deny the charges.
Yusuf also addressed the defection of two House of Representatives members, who have publicly exited the Kwankwasiyya movement while urging him to assert his independence. In response, Yusuf highlighted Kwankwaso’s foundational support, stating, “Critics forget the role Kwankwaso has played in our current progress.”
He expressed frustration with media coverage of the alleged rift, challenging reports that he ignored over 30 calls from Kwankwaso. “If not for my respect for journalists, I would have pursued legal action against those spreading such falsehoods,” he stated.
Yusuf appealed to supporters to abandon divisive slogans, emphasizing that he wants no part in a campaign that undermines his respect and loyalty to Kwankwaso. “As of today, I don’t want to hear ‘stand on your own’ in Kano State or anywhere in Nigeria,” he concluded, urging respect for elders and unity within the party.
Discussion about this post