The Governor of Kano State, Governor Abba Yusuf, has debunked rumours of discord with Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, News About Nigeria reports.
He made this known while speaking with newsmen, stating that their relationship remains strong and based on mutual respect.
Recall that rumours had been making rounds within the Kwankwasiyya movement and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), suggesting that Kwankwaso exerts undue influence over the administration of the governor, acting as a third term by proxy.
Yusuf however, dismissed these claims, stressing the strength and duration of his alliance with Kwankwaso, who is his political mentor.
He noted that he has known Kwankwaso for over 40 years and has maintained harmony with him for a long period of time.
He added that the notion of being “chained” by Kwankwaso is unfair as he could never insult someone who has supported him.
He stated, “There is no truth in the rumors of a misunderstanding between us. In my 40 years of knowing him, tell me, who among politicians has stayed with someone this long and still maintained harmony?”
“To suggest that I am somehow ‘chained’ by Kwankwaso is simply unfair. Just two days ago, I visited him and shared my surprise about these rumors. I said, ‘Do people expect me to insult the man who stood by me?’”
Amid the controversy, a faction within the NNPP, calling itself “Abba Tsaya da Kafarka,” meaning “Abba, stand on your own,” has been vocal in urging Yusuf to distance himself from Kwankwaso and make decisions independently.
Yusuf addressed this faction directly, denouncing their stance.
“This ‘stand on your own’ slogan is the greatest insult I have faced as governor. It implies that I should repay good with bad.
“What has Kwankwaso done to deserve this? All the good we are doing for the people is overlooked, and instead, they promote this divisive rhetoric,” he lamented.
