Kehinde Fajobi
Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has vehemently denied claims of a rift with his political mentor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and refuted allegations that Kwankwaso exerts undue influence over his administration.
In a late Wednesday address to journalists in Kano, Yusuf expressed his gratitude and loyalty to Kwankwaso, emphasising that their relationship remains strong after 40 years of partnership.
“There is no truth in the rumours of a misunderstanding between us,” Yusuf said, dismissing the speculations.
“In my 40 years of knowing him, tell me, who among politicians has stayed with someone this long and still maintained harmony?”
He pointed out that, during Kwankwaso’s time as governor, he served as his personal assistant, never once breaking their bond.
Yusuf also addressed the allegations that his governorship was influenced by Kwankwaso, stating that his rise to power was due to the will of God, not anyone’s influence.
He recounted a recent visit to Kwankwaso, where he expressed surprise at the rumours. “I said, ‘I am surprised. Do people expect me to insult the man who stood by me?’”
The claims of a rift have gained traction with a faction within the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), known as “Abba Tsaya da Kafarka” (meaning “Abba, stand on your own”).
This group has called on Yusuf to assert his independence from Kwankwaso. However, Yusuf rejected their message, labelling it “the greatest insult I have faced as governor” and condemned the divisive rhetoric.
He added, “What has Kwankwaso done to me to deserve this?”
Yusuf also responded to recent suspensions within the NNPP.
The party recently suspended the Secretary to the State Government, Abdullahi Baffa Bichi, and Commissioner of Transportation, Muhammad Diggol, for alleged involvement in the faction.
Both officials have denied the accusations, and an investigation is underway.
The governor addressed the defections of two House of Representatives members, Aliyu Sani Madakin Gini and Alhassan Rurum, who publicly left the Kwankwasiyya movement.
He underscored the importance of Kwankwaso’s support and denounced those undermining their long-standing relationship. “Where were these critics when he was laying the foundation for what we are doing now?” Yusuf questioned.
Yusuf also challenged the media’s portrayal of the situation, rejecting reports of Kwankwaso repeatedly calling him.
“They said Kwankwaso called me more than 30 times, and I refused to answer. Where did they get this from?”
He stated, “If not for my respect for journalists, I would have taken the person who wrote that to court.”
In conclusion, Yusuf urged his supporters to reject the divisive “stand on your own” slogan, stressing that he wants no part in any campaign that undermines his respect for Kwankwaso.
“We were raised to respect elders, not to insult them,” he said.