Former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has intensified his political disagreement with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, rejecting allegations that he referred to the governor in derogatory terms while reaffirming his dominant role in the Kwankwasiyya political movement.
Speaking to supporters at his Miller Road residence in Kano, Kwankwaso responded to recent comments by Governor Yusuf, who had accused him of disrespect after reports claimed the former governor described him as a “stooge” or “boy.”
Yusuf had argued that such remarks were inappropriate, especially considering the age gap between them.
Kwankwaso, however, defended his comments, insisting they were meant to reflect political mentorship and longstanding loyalty within the movement rather than personal insult.
“I heard that some people said they dislike being called boys. If not for insolence, how could Mai Gidan Ruwa or Aminu Goro say they were not my boys politically? How could even Ganduje deny that he was once my boy?” Kwankwaso said.
He referenced former Kano State governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje to underscore his claim that several influential politicians in Kano emerged through his political structure and guidance.
The public exchange signals deepening tensions between Kwankwaso and Governor Yusuf, both of whom built their political careers within the Kwankwasiyya movement before their relationship reportedly deteriorated following Yusuf’s election under the platform of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).
In his earlier reaction, Governor Yusuf described Kwankwaso’s repeated public remarks as disrespectful and cautioned that his silence should not be interpreted as weakness. He also hinted that he could disclose sensitive information if further provoked.
The feud represents one of the most notable internal conflicts within the Kwankwasiyya political camp in recent years, with both leaders now openly battling for influence over the movement’s future and political legacy.
