Governor Yusuf Calls Rift With Kwankwaso “The Greatest Insult I’ve Ever Faced

Yusuf referred to this as “the greatest insult” he has ever faced as governor, calling it a disrespectful demand to turn against Kwankwaso.

“This ‘stand on your own’ slogan suggests that I should repay good with harm,” he said, emphasizing that such rhetoric dismisses the positive work being done for the people.

Addressing these issues at a press briefing in Kano, the governor reiterated that his relationship with Kwankwaso is as strong as ever, maintained over four decades of mutual respect and trust.

Dismissing claims of Kwankwaso’s “undue influence,” Yusuf shared that he continues to consult and respect Kwankwaso, with whom he has never had a rift. “Even just two days ago, I met with him and discussed these rumors. Do people expect me to turn against the man who has always stood by me?” Yusuf questioned, stressing his loyalty.

Rumors had circulated that Kwankwaso held significant sway over Yusuf’s administration, including allegations of a “third term by proxy.” Meanwhile, Aliyu Sani Madakin-Gini, a representative who recently distanced himself from Kwankwaso, claimed disputes over contracts and a scholarship program fueled tensions between the two leaders.

Yusuf, however, labeled these accusations as false, expressing gratitude and loyalty to Kwankwaso and attributing his position to “the will of God.”

In response to growing factionalism, NNPP leadership suspended Abdullahi Baffa Bichi, Secretary to the State Government, and Muhammad Diggol, Commissioner of Transportation, due to alleged disloyalty and suspected support for the “Abba Tsaya da Kafarka” group. Aliyu Sani Madakin Gini and Alhassan Rurum, both House of Representatives members, have also urged Yusuf to distance himself from the Kwankwasiyya movement and assert his autonomy.

Governor Yusuf called on supporters to reject divisive rhetoric, warning against the “stand on your own” slogan. “In Kano and across Nigeria, we were taught to respect elders.

I don’t want to hear this slogan,” he concluded, emphasizing that loyalty and respect for his mentor remain central to his principles.