Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has dismissed rumors of discord between him and his political mentor, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, affirming that their relationship remains solid and rooted in mutual respect.
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, Governor Yusuf addressed recent speculation within the Kwankwasiyya movement and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), where some claim Kwankwaso wields excessive influence over his administration, effectively making it a “third term by proxy.” Yusuf rejected these rumors as baseless, emphasizing the long-standing and harmonious alliance he shares with Kwankwaso.
“There is no truth in these rumors of a rift between us,” Yusuf said. “I have known him for 40 years. How many politicians can say they have maintained such a close relationship for this long without conflict?”
The speculation gained traction after Aliyu Sani Madakin-Gini, a House of Representatives member representing Dala Federal Constituency, recently distanced himself from Kwankwaso, alleging disagreements over issues related to a drugs contract and a state scholarship scheme. Yusuf, however, denied these claims, asserting his independence while acknowledging Kwankwaso’s invaluable support throughout his career.
“To suggest that I am controlled by Kwankwaso is simply unfair,” Yusuf noted. “Just two days ago, I visited him and brought up these rumors, saying, ‘Do people expect me to turn against the person who has always stood by me?’”
Amid rising tensions, a faction within the NNPP, calling itself “Abba Tsaya da Kafarka” (“Abba, stand on your own”), has been vocal in urging Governor Abba Yusuf to establish his independence from Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso. Yusuf directly addressed the group, condemning their stance as disrespectful.
“This ‘stand on your own’ slogan is the greatest insult I have faced as governor,” Yusuf remarked. “It implies that I should repay kindness with betrayal. What has Kwankwaso done to deserve this? All the positive work we are doing for the people is ignored, and instead, they push a divisive narrative.”
In response to the internal discord, the NNPP’s state leadership recently suspended Abdullahi Baffa Bichi, Secretary to the State Government, and Muhammad Diggol, Commissioner of Transportation, citing their alleged involvement in the “Abba Tsaya da Kafarka” campaign. Both officials have denied these accusations.
With support for this faction growing, other prominent Kwankwasiyya members, such as House representatives Aliyu Sani Madakin Gini and Alhassan Rurum, have distanced themselves from Kwankwaso, encouraging Yusuf to assert independence. Yet, Governor Yusuf remained steadfast in his loyalty to his mentor.
“It seems people overlook the pivotal role Kwankwaso has played. Where were these critics when he was laying the groundwork for the progress we’re making now?” Yusuf asked.
He also expressed frustration over media reports claiming he had ignored numerous calls from Kwankwaso. “They said Kwankwaso called me over 30 times, and I refused to answer. Where did they get that from?” Yusuf questioned. “If not for my respect for journalists, I would take whoever wrote that to court. Kwankwaso and I both know it’s untrue; there is no rift.”
In closing, he urged his supporters to reject divisive rhetoric, calling for unity and respect within the party. “From now on, I don’t want to hear ‘stand on your own’ anywhere in Kano or Nigeria,” Yusuf said. “We were raised to honor our elders, not to disrespect them.”
