Former Kano State Governor and national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has dismissed claims that he dictates the affairs of the Kano State Government under Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
Kwankwaso, who spoke in an interview with BBC Hausa as part of activities marking his 69th birthday in Kano, said Governor Yusuf is fully in charge of his administration and enjoys complete freedom to make his own decisions.
“There is no problem between me and Governor Abba,” Kwankwaso said. “We gave him the opportunity to perform, and he is doing his best. Those alleging that I control contracts or influence government decisions are simply being mischievous.”
The former governor’s statement comes amid growing political speculation that he wields significant influence over the Kano State Government, with some critics alleging that major decisions and appointments are made with his approval.
Kwankwaso, however, described such reports as false and politically motivated, saying they were being spread by people who want to cause division within the NNPP and the Kwankwasiyya movement — his long-standing political structure in Kano.
He insisted that Governor Yusuf, who won the March 2023 governorship election under the NNPP, has his full support and encouragement to deliver good governance to the people of Kano.
“There is no misunderstanding between us,” Kwankwaso stressed. “Our focus is on serving the people, not fighting among ourselves.”
The NNPP presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections also used the opportunity to warn party members who have recently defected or are planning to leave the NNPP, saying such moves would have political consequences in the next general elections.
“If anyone thinks he can leave us and still win an election in Kano, he is only deceiving himself,” he said firmly. “Our political movement will continue to take decisive action against betrayal.”
Kwankwaso expressed confidence that the NNPP would remain a strong political force ahead of the 2027 elections, saying the party had gained popularity across Nigeria, especially among young people who are increasingly aware of their political power.
He said Nigerians are now more politically conscious and would no longer allow their votes to be manipulated or stolen.
“The youths have seen what is happening. They are more determined now to protect their votes and demand good governance,” he said.
Kwankwaso, a two-term former governor of Kano and a one-time Minister of Defence, has remained one of the most influential political figures in northern Nigeria. His Kwankwasiyya movement has continued to play a major role in Kano’s political landscape, where loyalty and grassroots mobilisation have long been central to electoral success.
