Kano State is witnessing a significant political drama as tensions rise between Governor Abba Yusuf and his mentor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, the national leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).
This conflict has exposed deep-seated issues within the party and is causing unrest among supporters.
The rift began after Kwankwaso’s control over party decisions, particularly regarding local government appointments, began to undermine Governor Yusuf’s authority.
Many within the governor’s camp feel increasingly sidelined as Kwankwaso makes key decisions without the governor’s input.
An insider revealed, “Abba does not want to disrespect Kwankwaso, but he truly wants to be independent.”
The insider further stated that “Ninety percent of the commissioners were imposed by Kwankwaso,” indicating a lack of genuine collaboration in governance.
Despite these tensions, Governor Yusuf has hesitated to act against Kwankwaso’s wishes.
“He wants to drop some commissioners who are either incompetent or disloyal,” the source said, “but he keeps them for peace’s sake.”
The political dynamics took a turn for the worse when Governor Yusuf refused to attend key meetings convened by Kwankwaso in both Kano and Abuja.
Sources disclosed that he had previously committed to attend a meeting but kept Kwankwaso waiting through the night without showing up.
This apparent snubbing indicates a growing rift that could have serious implications for the NNPP.
The governor’s absence from these meetings raises questions about the future of their relationship.
The two leaders have not met or communicated significantly since Kwankwaso’s birthday celebration in October.
During that event, Kwankwaso publicly confronted Yusuf, further highlighting the strain in their relationship.
Reports suggest that there are factions forming within the party as supporters of Governor Yusuf begin to rally around him.
A group called “Abba Tsaya Da Kafarka,” meaning “Abba, Wake Up and Assert Yourself,” has emerged to promote the governor’s independence.
A source close to this group stated, “It is essential for Yusuf to stop acting like an errand boy,” emphasizing a desire for a more autonomous leadership.
Sources indicate that Kwankwaso is particularly unhappy with two key officials: the Commissioner for Information, Baba Dantiye, and the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Abdullahi Bichi.
Kwankwaso reportedly wants these officials replaced, believing them to be ineffective and unresponsive to his directives.
In response to these tensions, the NNPP’s National Assembly members recently met with Governor Yusuf.
They encouraged him to assert his authority and take charge of his administration.
Alhaji Hamisu Dumgurawa, the NNPP chairman in Kano, has taken steps to reinforce party discipline by suspending key officials, including the Secretary to the State Government and the Commissioner for Transport.
These actions indicate a growing division within the party and reflect the ongoing power struggle.
