Kano NNPP Crisis Deepens: Governor Abba Yusuf Reportedly Cuts Communication with Political Godfather Rabiu Kwankwaso

Kano State’s ruling New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) is witnessing a significant internal rift as Governor Abba Yusuf has reportedly stopped taking calls from his political godfather, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso. The strained relationship has raised concerns over the party’s future unity and prompted speculation of a possible realignment of political allegiances.

The slogan “Abba Tsaya da Kafarka” (Abba, stand on your feet) is gaining momentum, as influential voices within and outside the party call for Governor Yusuf to establish an independent path, potentially separate from Kwankwaso’s influence. The push for autonomy comes amid growing discontent over what some insiders describe as Kwankwaso’s overreach in the governor’s administration.

According to sources, various NNPP officials, allegedly frustrated by Kwankwaso’s control, have already initiated talks with the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC). Legal maneuvers are also reportedly underway, with an Abia State High Court recently ruling to reinstate former NNPP leader Boniface Aniebonam, potentially paving the way for a factional split within the party.

Key Figures and Growing Divisions

Observers suggest that a faction of high-ranking officials within the Kano government, including the Secretary to the State Government Baffa Bichi, and several commissioners and state assembly members, are spearheading the push for Yusuf’s independence. The rebellion reportedly stems from dissatisfaction over appointments and interference in governance, with insiders claiming that Yusuf is keen to reform his administration without external pressure from his mentor.

Despite his loyalty to Kwankwaso, sources indicate Yusuf feels constrained by appointments imposed by his godfather, many of whom he reportedly considers either ineffective or disloyal. Tensions reportedly reached a breaking point in March when Kwankwaso appointed local government chairmen without consulting the governor. This led to Yusuf’s recent dismissal of caretaker chairmen, a move seen by analysts as a direct challenge to Kwankwaso’s influence.

A ‘Cat and Mouse’ Relationship

The strained relationship between Yusuf and Kwankwaso has become a point of public interest, with sources reporting a series of missed meetings and unreturned calls. While the governor did make an appearance at Kwankwaso’s birthday celebration on October 21, he has otherwise avoided direct engagement. When Kwankwaso attempted to meet with Yusuf in both Kano and Abuja, the governor reportedly declined the invitations, signaling a deepening schism.

Attempts by Kwankwaso to relay directives through Yusuf’s aides, including a request to dismiss the SSG Bichi, were ignored, prompting the NNPP’s Kano chairman to announce the SSG’s dismissal on grounds of “anti-party activities.”

The Kwankwasiyya Movement Under Pressure

The Kwankwasiyya movement, which has long served as the foundation of NNPP’s influence in Kano, appears to be fragmenting. Recently, Ali Madaki, a House of Representatives member for Dala Federal Constituency, publicly distanced himself from the movement, urging supporters to forgo the symbolic red cap associated with Kwankwasiyya. Meanwhile, additional NNPP lawmakers are expected to shift allegiance to Aniebonam’s faction.

Despite multiple attempts, Kwankwaso has not publicly addressed the growing rebellion within his party. However, a source close to him voiced disappointment, stating, “Kwankwaso has his flaws, but he doesn’t deserve this treatment, especially after sacrifices he made to support Abba.”

As the power struggle within Kano’s NNPP intensifies, the future of the party’s leadership and unity remains uncertain. Governor Yusuf’s spokesperson, Sanusi Dawakintofa, declined to comment on the developments.