Gov Yusuf Denies Rift With Kwankwaso, Says Calls For His ‘Political Independence’ An Insult

Kano State governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has publicly reacted to reports of disagreement with his political god-father, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, dismissing the speculations of a political rift even as he described as “an insult”, calls suggesting that he should break way from the national leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).

Governor Yusuf spoke during a Wednesday midnight interview with journalists at the Government House in Kano, to address rising tensions in the State stirred by the so-called ‘Abba Tsaya Da Kafarka’ Movement. The movement, which loosely translates to ‘Stand on Your Own Feet, Abba’, has gained traction in recent weeks, with proponents urging the governor to assert his political independence from his political godfather and father-in-law, Kwankwaso.

But, Governor Yusuf denounced the movement’s message, emphasising the trust and loyalty he shares with Kwankwaso. “By saying I should stand on my feet, they are insulting me and indirectly invalidating all the good work my administration has done to date,” he asserted. The governor acknowledged Kwankwaso’s support as instrumental in his political journey and that any notion of betrayal was unacceptable.

“I have always been loyal. God granted me the chance to be governor today, but it was Kwankwaso’s support that made it possible,” he affirmed. “Why should I betray him now?” Governor Yusuf queried, firmly stating that those calling for him to stand on his feet were simply sowing seed of discord and that he would remain focused on his duties to the state.

The governor also refuted claims that he has been ignoring phone calls from Kwankwaso, clarifying that he respects journalists and chose not to pursue legal action against the media outlet that published the news story. “I could have challenged the journalist who reported this, but I refrained out of my deep respect for the profession. I want to work alongside journalists,” he explained.

Beyond addressing the political developments in the State, Governor Yusuf also extended an olive branch to members of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) at the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital in Kano, who recently withdrew their services following allegations that the state’s commissioner of Humanitarian Affairs assaulted a medical doctor on duty. Acknowledging the grievances, Yusuf apologised to the medical community, urging them to resume their duties to serve Kano’s residents.

He further assured the public that he would not tolerate misconduct by any official in his administration and invited the State chapter of the NMA to engage in discussions for a peaceful resolution. “We must work together to protect the lives and well-being of our citizens,” Governor Yusuf added.