I Am Open To Reconciling With Kano Gov, Says Kwankwaso
Former Kano State Governor and leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has declared his willingness to set aside political differences and reconcile with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. In a recent media interview, the seasoned politician emphasized that his personal affection for his former political protégé remains intact despite their current political estrangement.
Speaking openly about the rift, Kwankwaso insisted that he never rejected Governor Yusuf, asserting that it was the governor who voluntarily departed from their political camp. He stressed that the door to reconciliation remains open, noting that he would not turn away the governor or any other former ally who wishes to return to the fold. Drawing from his extensive political experience, Kwankwaso recalled his relationship with another former political associate, Abdullahi Ganduje, highlighting how they had fallen out and mended fences multiple times over the years. He described such political shifts as a normal part of governance and movement building.
The political discord between the two figures deepened after Governor Yusuf left the New Nigeria People’s Party, the platform on which he successfully contested the 2023 governorship election, to join the ruling All Progressives Congress. This defection drew sharp criticism from members of the Kwankwasiyya movement, many of whom viewed the move as a departure from the political structure that facilitated his rise to power.
Reflecting on the 2023 election, Kwankwaso argued that the governor’s victory was largely driven by the organizational strength and popularity of the Kwankwasiyya movement. He explained that the movement deliberately selected Yusuf as its candidate at the time to test its own political influence and electoral clout across Kano State, rather than because he was the most senior or most educated member of the group. He further dismissed suggestions that Yusuf might have feared defeat had he remained with their party, maintaining confidence in the movement’s stronghold over Kano politics.
Despite the political disagreements and the governor’s defection, Kwankwaso stressed the importance of tolerance, understanding, and forgiveness in leadership. He noted that effective leaders must accommodate diverse views and perspectives, recognizing that individuals come from different backgrounds. Without a willingness to forgive, he argued, political progress would be impossible. His remarks come at a time of ongoing political realignments in Kano State, as various parties and political actors intensify preparations for future electoral contests.
