Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has declared that no one can separate him from his political mentor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, amid reports of internal tension within the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Yusuf made the statement while addressing supporters in Kano, saying his loyalty to Kwankwaso remains unshakable despite ongoing political speculation.

“Anyone who hopes to see me separate from Kwankwaso should be ashamed,” Yusuf said during the event, drawing cheers from party members. “Our relationship is built on trust, respect, and a shared vision for the people of Kano.”

The governor’s remarks come as reports circulate about divisions within the NNPP over control of party structures and policy direction. Some party members have reportedly urged Yusuf to assert more independence from Kwankwaso, who founded the party and remains its national leader.

Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State and 2023 presidential candidate of the NNPP, is considered one of northern Nigeria’s most influential politicians. His “Kwankwasiyya” movement commands a large following across the northwest, especially in Kano, where his signature red cap symbolizes loyalty and discipline within the movement.

Political observers say the governor’s public show of loyalty is aimed at quelling rumors of a rift between him and Kwankwaso. The statement also appears to reinforce the strength of the Kwankwasiyya movement, which has faced increasing scrutiny from rival parties and internal critics.

In recent weeks, speculation about disagreements between the two men intensified after reports suggested that the NNPP was struggling to manage competing interests ahead of the 2027 general election. Some analysts believe Yusuf’s comments were meant to calm tensions and reaffirm his alignment with Kwankwaso’s leadership.

Yusuf also linked recent political and legal challenges against his administration to efforts aimed at weakening Kwankwaso’s influence in Kano politics.

“All the attacks against my government are not about me. They are targeted at my mentor’s vision and what he represents,” the governor said. “But they will not succeed.”

Governor Yusuf’s administration has faced multiple legal and political challenges since taking office in 2023, including election petitions and disputes over policy reforms. Despite these hurdles, he continues to credit Kwankwaso’s guidance for shaping his leadership style and policy agenda.

Kwankwaso, who served as defense minister and senator after his two terms as governor, remains a central figure in Nigeria’s political landscape. He has not publicly commented on the recent reports of internal NNPP disputes, but his loyalists insist the party remains united under his leadership.

Analysts say Yusuf’s latest comments could help consolidate the NNPP’s base ahead of upcoming local government elections in Kano. They note that a public show of unity is vital to maintain political stability and protect the party’s stronghold in the region.

However, some critics warn that the governor’s unyielding loyalty might limit his political independence. “While allegiance to Kwankwaso is expected, Yusuf must also demonstrate his own leadership identity,” said political analyst Sani Lawal. “The people of Kano will judge him by his performance, not just by his loyalty.”

The statement has drawn mixed reactions across the state. Supporters of the Kwankwasiyya movement praised the governor for his loyalty, while opposition figures described the remarks as evidence of overdependence on Kwankwaso.

As Kano remains one of Nigeria’s most politically strategic states, the bond between Yusuf and Kwankwaso could shape the NNPP’s future and influence national politics ahead of 2027. For now, the governor’s message is clear: his political journey remains firmly tied to the man who brought him into the spotlight.