Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the 2027 vice presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has stated that the door of reconciliation remains open for Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State. The national leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement emphasized that his affection for the governor has not diminished despite their political differences.
Kwankwaso's Stance on Reconciliation
In a recent interview with BBC Hausa on Monday, June 8, 2026, Kwankwaso expressed his willingness to forgive and reconcile with Governor Yusuf. He stated, "I still love Abba, and I didn't reject him; he is the one who left. So not just Abba, if anyone who left comes back, I won't be unforgiving." He drew parallels with his past disagreements with former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, noting that they fell out several times but always reunited. "Look at Ganduje, in the many years we worked together, we fell out several times and got back together. That is how politics works," Kwankwaso added.
Kwankwasiyya Movement's Role in 2023 Victory
Kwankwaso insisted that Governor Yusuf's electoral victory in 2023 was made possible by the Kwankwasiyya movement. He lamented that the governor left the movement to join the people they had defeated. According to Kwankwaso, the movement intentionally fielded Yusuf as its gubernatorial candidate in 2023 to demonstrate its political influence in Kano State, not because he was the most senior or the most educated. "We chose him because we wanted to test the strength and calibre of the Kwankwasiyya movement at that time," he explained.
Strategic Unity for 2027 Elections
The Kwankwasiyya movement and NDC leaders have been holding late-night meetings to strategize for the 2027 general election. Discussions have focused on resolving disputes and fostering unity within the NDC, emphasizing internal democracy. The NDC has denied rumors of released primary election results, reinforcing its commitment to transparent decision-making.
Meanwhile, the Kwankwasiyya Movement has denied claims that Kwankwaso is planning to leave the NDC ahead of the 2027 elections. The movement stressed that there is no internal disagreement over candidate selections within the party. The group's spokesperson stated that the NDC primaries followed due process, emphasizing party unity and cohesion.
Kwankwaso's remarks highlight the complex nature of political relationships in Nigeria, where alliances shift and reconciliation is often possible. As the 2027 elections approach, the dynamics between Kwankwaso, Governor Yusuf, and the APC will continue to shape the political landscape in Kano State.
