Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has dismissed reports of a rift between him and his mentor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. He reaffirmed that their Kano political alliance remains strong and unwavering.
Speaking in Madobi during Kwankwaso’s 69th birthday celebration on Tuesday, Yusuf described the former governor as a “God-given leader” whose ideals continue to guide Kano’s governance.
“Those within and outside trying to create a quarrel between me and our leader, Engineer Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, will not succeed,” Yusuf told a gathering of party supporters and dignitaries.
He added, “We will continue to follow the legacy and principles of the Kwankwasiyya movement because Kwankwaso is a God-given leader. His wisdom and vision remain a guiding light for our administration.”
Rumors of division within the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) grew after the emergence of a faction called “Abba Tsaya da Kafarka”(Abba Stand on Your Feet). The group, reportedly led by Dr. Baffa Bichi and Alhaji Salisu Digol, sought greater autonomy in the governor’s decisions. Analysts claimed the movement threatened Kwankwaso’s dominance and could reshape the Kano political alliance.
However, Governor Yusuf’s latest remarks have calmed speculation. He praised Kwankwaso’s mentorship and the continued relevance of the Kwankwasiyya philosophy in governance.
“Engineer Kwankwaso is not just a political leader but a visionary whose leadership continues to guide the progress of Kano State. We are proud to uphold the Kwankwasiyya values of discipline, service, and good governance,” Yusuf said.
He also prayed for his mentor’s long life and health. “We pray that Almighty Allah grants our leader more years in good health so he can continue to guide us in the struggle for a better Nigeria,” he added.
Kwankwaso, a former governor and ex-minister of defense, played a key role in Yusuf’s political rise.
