Galadima Dismisses Rift Rumors Between Kwankwaso and Kano Governor
Elder statesman and prominent New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) chieftain, Engineer Buba Galadima, has firmly dismissed circulating rumors suggesting a rift between Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. Speaking during an exclusive interview on Trust TV's Daily Politics program on Thursday, January 24, Galadima emphasized that the long-standing political alliance between these two influential figures remains completely intact despite mounting external pressures.
Pressure to Distance from Kwankwaso Acknowledged
While categorically rejecting any notion of a political break between Kwankwaso and Governor Yusuf, Galadima openly acknowledged that the governor faces significant pressure from various quarters to distance himself from his political mentor. He elaborated on the deep-rooted relationship between the NNPP national leader and the Kano governor, describing it as fundamental to Yusuf's political achievements and electoral success.
"Kwankwaso personally anointed Abba Kabir Yusuf to become governor of Kano State, and he emerged victorious in the election. This is not merely about political maneuvering; it represents divine intervention in our political landscape. Their association spans more than three decades, beginning before their political careers, continuing through their political journey, and extending into governance," Galadima explained during the television interview.
Warning Against Political Realignment
Galadima issued a stern warning about the potential consequences of Governor Yusuf attempting to rely exclusively on the All Progressives Congress (APC) for political support. He stressed that the governor's political foundation remains intrinsically connected to Kwankwaso's enduring influence and grassroots support structure.
"If he chooses to stand on borrowed political feet, he will inevitably experience a political collapse. The governor's current position and future prospects are deeply intertwined with the political machinery and mentorship provided by Senator Kwankwaso over many years," Galadima stated unequivocally.
NNPP Resilience Amid Defection Reports
Addressing widespread reports about NNPP members defecting to the APC, Galadima emphasized that his party's organizational foundation and electoral achievements remain unshaken. He claimed that the APC's attempts to destabilize the NNPP through various legal challenges have ultimately proven unsuccessful despite substantial financial investments in these efforts.
"Opponents are spreading narratives suggesting that even if NNPP candidates win elections, the courts will subsequently nullify their victories. More than three billion naira has been expended in attempts to discredit our party and its leadership, yet the New Nigeria Peoples Party continues to stand strong and resilient," Galadima revealed during the broadcast.
Loyalty as Prerequisite for Continued Support
When questioned about whether Governor Yusuf would retain Kwankwaso's political backing should he eventually leave the NNPP, Galadima provided a clear and uncompromising response. He emphasized that political loyalty remains non-negotiable within their political structure.
"Should Governor Yusuf decide to move politically without Senator Kwankwaso's endorsement and participation, he cannot expect to receive our continued support. Kwankwaso has established a political party that we are diligently building and strengthening. The governor cannot realistically expect Kwankwaso to follow his political direction; such an attempt would render him politically inconsequential within our political framework," Galadima declared.
Insights into Kano's Political Dynamics
Galadima's detailed comments provide significant insight into the complex internal dynamics shaping Kano State's political landscape. His statements highlight the enduring influence of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso within the region's political ecosystem while simultaneously illuminating the substantial challenges facing politicians considering political realignment ahead of Nigeria's 2027 general elections.
The political veteran's remarks underscore the delicate balance between established political alliances and emerging realignment pressures within Nigeria's evolving democratic landscape, particularly in influential states like Kano where political loyalties often determine electoral outcomes and governance stability.
