Kano Governor Enforces Discipline Amid Political Transition
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has issued a fresh warning to his supporters, explicitly prohibiting them from insulting or making inflammatory statements against Rabiu Kwankwaso, the leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement and former governor of the state. The governor emphasized that there would be disciplinary action against any supporter who engages in such behavior, underscoring the importance of maintaining decorum within the political landscape.
Official Warning Delivered During Supporters' Event
Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the director general of media and publicity to the Kano State Government House, delivered the warning during the distribution of motorcycles to the governor's supporters at the Open Space Theatre, Government House, Kano. The event, which took place on Saturday, January 24, saw Governor Yusuf personally present, highlighting the significance of the message.
Bature explained that, regardless of ongoing political developments, the state government would not tolerate any acts of indiscipline towards Kwankwaso. He stressed that the Kwankwasiyya leader's role in Kano politics must always be acknowledged and respected. "We will not accept indiscipline or insults against the leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. Anybody who engages in such behaviour will face the consequences," Bature stated firmly.
Political Tensions Rise Following NNPP Resignation
This warning comes at a time of heightened political tension in Kano, following Governor Yusuf's resignation from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). The resignation has prompted calls for maturity and restraint among his supporters, as the political landscape undergoes significant shifts. Bature urged supporters to conduct themselves with decorum, emphasizing that political disagreements should not degenerate into personal attacks or abuse.
The government reiterated its commitment to maintaining internal cohesion and peace among its supporters. Bature reminded them that respect for leaders and discipline within the political structure are essential for effective governance and stability. This stance is particularly crucial as the state navigates the complexities of political realignment.
APC Clarifies Position on Yusuf's Potential Defection
Amid speculation that Governor Yusuf is heading to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), concerns have been raised about whether he would receive an automatic ticket for a second term. However, Abdullahi Abbas Sanusi, the chairman of the APC in Kano State, has clarified the party's position. Sanusi maintained that the governor is welcome into the APC and that the focus is not on automatic tickets but on strategic planning for future electoral success.
Sanusi explained that Governor Yusuf is not defecting alone; he is expected to bring along elected local government chairmen, councillors, and other political office holders. Once the defection is finalized, the party will sit down to map out strategies that benefit both new and existing members. "It is not about contesting, it is about winning the 2027 general election. It is about sitting down to discuss and agree, and there is nothing impossible here," Sanusi noted, highlighting the collaborative approach.
Background on Recent Political Developments
The resignation of Governor Yusuf from the NNPP has led to mixed reactions from the Kwankwasiyya Movement and the people of Kano. This development adds to the political dynamics in the state, which has recently been in mourning following the sudden deaths of two lawmakers from the state house of assembly on Wednesday, December 24. The deceased lawmakers are Aminu Sa'adu, popularly known as Aminu Saad Ungogo, and Sarki Aliyu Daneji, as confirmed by Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa in a social media post.
As Kano navigates these political changes, the emphasis on discipline and respect within supporter ranks underscores the broader efforts to ensure stability and unity in the state's political environment.
