Kwankwaso Proclaims World Betrayal Day in Response to Governor Yusuf's Political Departure
In a dramatic political development, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has declared January 23 as World Betrayal Day, a move directly linked to the resignation of Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf from the New Nigeria People's Party. The announcement was made during a gathering with supporters at Kwankwaso's Miller Road residence in Kano, as reported by Daily Trust.
Social Media Inspiration Behind the Declaration
Kwankwaso revealed that the concept for World Betrayal Day originated from reactions on social media platforms following Governor Yusuf's exit from the NNPP on January 23, 2026. Online commentators had widely characterized the governor's defection as a betrayal of the political movement that propelled him into office.
Addressing his loyalists, Kwankwaso stated, "None caught my attention more than one who posted, suggesting that we declare January 23 annually as World Betrayal Day." He further emphasized, "Therefore, as the leader and grand patron of this movement, I hereby declare that I fully support the declaration."
Annual Observance and Political Implications
According to Kwankwaso, World Betrayal Day will be marked each year through organized activities designed to serve as a reminder of the circumstances surrounding Governor Yusuf's departure and its broader implications for the political movement. This declaration underscores the deep rift within the NNPP and highlights the emotional impact of the governor's decision on party faithful.
Governor Yusuf's resignation from the NNPP was previously reported, with the governor citing unresolved internal crises and leadership disagreements within the party as primary reasons for his exit. His anticipated alignment with the All Progressives Congress has significantly altered the political landscape in Kano State.
Divergent Reactions Across Kano's Political Spectrum
The governor's defection has elicited sharply contrasting responses from various political factions in Kano:
- APC Supporters: Have welcomed the move, arguing that joining the ruling party at the federal level positions Kano State for enhanced access to national influence and resources.
- Kwankwaso Loyalists: Have condemned the defection, viewing it as a fundamental break from shared political ideals. Many within the Kwankwasiyya movement believe the exit has destabilized the party structure in Kano and created uncertainty among grassroots supporters.
Kwankwaso's Confidence in NNPP's Future
Despite the setback, Kwankwaso has maintained a defiant stance regarding the NNPP's prospects. He recently warned political rivals who dismiss the party ahead of the 2027 general elections to expect unexpected outcomes in Kano and beyond. The former presidential candidate argued that critics are misjudging the party's strength and misunderstanding the realities of Nigerian politics.
This declaration of World Betrayal Day represents more than symbolic retaliation; it serves as a strategic political statement aimed at consolidating support within the NNPP and framing the narrative around Governor Yusuf's departure as an act of treachery rather than mere political realignment.
