Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has denied rumors of a rift with his political mentor and leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
In a recent interaction with journalists in Kano, Yusuf emphasized that his relationship with Kwankwaso remains strong and respectful, spanning over 40 years.
Yusuf’s denial comes amid allegations that Kwankwaso wields excessive influence over his administration, dictating policy decisions and effectively running a “third term by proxy.”
However, Yusuf asserted his autonomy, stating, “There is no truth in the rumors of a misunderstanding between us.”
He mentioned his long-standing relationship with Kwankwaso, from serving as his personal assistant to becoming a close political ally.
Aliyu Sani Madakin-Gini, a House of Representatives member, had alleged that Yusuf’s tiff with Kwankwaso stemmed from controversies over a drugs contract and a state-funded scholarship scheme. Yusuf dismissed these allegations, emphasizing his gratitude and loyalty to Kwankwaso.
A faction within the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), known as “Abba Tsaya da Kafarka” (meaning “Abba, stand on your own”), has gained attention, calling on Yusuf to distance himself from Kwankwaso. Yusuf addressed this group directly, labeling their message an “insult” to his loyalty.
Yusuf expressed frustration at media reports alleging strained communication between him and Kwankwaso. “They said Kwankwaso called me more than 30 times, and I refused to answer. Where did they get this from?” He clarified that such reports were baseless and reaffirmed his respect and loyalty to Kwankwaso.
The NNPP’s state leadership recently suspended two officials, Abdullahi Baffa Bichi and Muhammad Diggol, citing disloyalty and suspected involvement in the “Abba Tsaya da Kafarka” campaign. Two House of Representatives members, Aliyu Sani Madakin Gini and Alhassan Rurum, have publicly exited the Kwankwasiyya movement, urging Yusuf to assert his independence.
In response, Yusuf appealed to his supporters to refrain from using the divisive slogan, warning that he wants no part in any campaign that undermines his loyalty. “As of today, I don’t want to hear ‘stand on your own’ in Kano State or anywhere in Nigeria. We were raised to respect elders, not to insult them.”
