Rita Odafe
Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has denied rumors suggesting a conflict with his mentor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, who was the presidential candidate for the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in 2023.
He criticized a political faction named “Abba Tsaya da Kafarka” (meaning “Abba, stand on your own”) for urging him to act independently of Kwankwaso, calling it the most insulting thing he has encountered during his time as governor.
This group, which has recently attracted attention, encourages Yusuf to separate his political decisions from those of Kwankwaso.
The movement is gaining traction, as many members from within the NNPP and other political affiliations are advocating for Yusuf to assert his independence.
In response, Governor Yusuf stated: “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 me to deserve this? All the good we are doing for the people is overlooked, and instead, they promote this divisive rhetoric,” he emphasized, also remarking, “It’s as if people do not know what we are doing for them.”
This statement was made during a press conference in Kano, where he addressed the ongoing rumors and clarified his stance regarding his relationship with Kwankwaso.
Yusuf reassured everyone that his bond with Kwankwaso continues to be strong and amicable, a connection that has lasted over forty years.
