The governor of Kano State, Abba Yusuf, has stated that his relationship with Rabiu Kwankwaso, presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in the 2023 elections, remains solid and free from any form of discord.
Yusuf made this known on Wednesday during a lecture held in Madobi LGA of Kano to celebrate Kwankwaso’s 69th birthday.
According to a statement issued by his press secretary, Mustapha Muhammad, the governor reiterated his commitment to upholding the principles of the Kwankwasiyya movement, which he said continues to drive Kano’s development.
“I assure the Kwankwasiyya followers that we will sustain the movement’s ideology, and various initiatives are already underway,” Yusuf stated.
He emphasized that those expecting cracks within the movement would be disappointed, describing Kwankwaso as a leader with a remarkable record of service from his youth.
The governor also expressed gratitude to Kamilu Fagge, a professor of political science, and Bello Kano, a literary scholar, for their prayers against what he termed “enemies of peace” in the state.
In response, Kwankwaso praised the achievements recorded under Yusuf’s administration and appreciated the large turnout of supporters from within and beyond Kano who gathered to celebrate his birthday.
Earlier reports had suggested the emergence of a faction called “Abba Tsaya da Kafarka” (Abba, Stand on Your Feet), allegedly led by Baffa Bichi, former Secretary to the State Government (SSG), and Salisu Digol, a former commissioner for transportation. The group was reportedly pushing for greater independence for Yusuf’s administration, raising concerns among analysts about a potential rift between the governor and Kwankwaso.
However, Yusuf’s latest remarks appear to have quelled such speculations, reaffirming his unwavering loyalty to Kwankwaso’s ideology and their shared commitment to advancing the NNPP’s vision in Kano State.