Kwankwaso Dismisses Rift Claims, Says Governor Yusuf Runs Kano Independently

Former Kano State Governor and national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has refuted claims that he interferes in the running of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration, maintaining that the Kano State Government operates independently and without external control.

Speaking in an interview with the BBC Hausa Service to mark his 69th birthday, Kwankwaso described reports of a rift between him and Governor Yusuf as baseless and politically motivated. He said the governor had been given full authority to execute his duties and was performing to the best of his ability.

“There is no problem between me and Governor Abba,” Kwankwaso stated. “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 NNPP presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections also sent a strong warning to members of the party defecting to rival platforms, saying such moves would have political consequences in the 2027 elections.

“If anyone thinks he can leave us and still win an election in Kano, he is only deceiving himself,” Kwankwaso said. “Our political movement will continue to take decisive action against betrayal.”

Kwankwaso, who also served as Minister of Defence, expressed optimism about the NNPP’s prospects ahead of future polls, stressing that the party remains a strong force in Nigeria’s political landscape. He added that Nigerians, particularly the youth, have become more politically aware and are increasingly committed to defending their votes and resisting electoral manipulation.