Kwankwaso Remark Sparks Fresh Row As Kano Govt Takes On Galadima

The Kano State Government has dismissed comments by elder statesman Buba Galadima suggesting that Governor Abba Yusuf cannot secure re-election in 2027 without the support of former governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

In a statement released on Sunday, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, described Galadima’s claim as misleading, stressing that political success in Kano is driven by popular support rather than godfather influence.

Waiya acknowledged Kwankwaso’s stature in Nigerian politics but rejected the idea that Kano’s political future revolves around any single individual.

“There is no doubt that Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso remains a major political force,” he said. “However, to suggest that the destiny of Kano politics is permanently tied to one person is a clear misreading of history and the democratic mindset of the people.”

The commissioner maintained that Governor Yusuf’s electoral victory was achieved through the mandate of voters and upheld by due process, not political patronage.

“Governor Yusuf emerged through the will of the people, not political benevolence. Since taking office, his administration has prioritised education, institutional reforms and social justice,” Waiya stated.

Referencing Kano’s political history, he cited the emergence of Ibrahim Shekarau in 2003 and Kwankwaso’s return in 2011 as evidence that the electorate consistently rewards performance over loyalty to political figures.

Waiya also expressed surprise that the comments came from Galadima, who was appointed by Governor Yusuf as Chairman of the Governing Council of Kano State Polytechnic, despite not being an indigene of the state.

“That appointment was extended in good faith, yet it recorded little or no tangible impact during his tenure,” he added.

Defending Yusuf’s recent exit from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Waiya said the move was prompted by persistent internal crises and prolonged legal disputes within the party.

“The decision to leave the NNPP was made in good faith, prioritising peace, unity and the overall development of Kano State,” he explained.

He concluded by noting that political mentorship does not imply lifelong dependence, emphasising that leadership in Kano is judged by performance rather than allegiance.

Invoking a philosophical and religious perspective, Waiya added, “In Kano politics, as in life, destiny is determined by Allah. That is the enduring principle that shapes our political reality.”