Former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has intensified his political disagreement with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf after dismissing claims that he insulted the governor by referring to him as a “boy” or “stooge.”

Kwankwaso spoke while addressing supporters at his Miller Road residence in Kano, where he defended his comments and insisted they reflected political mentorship within the Kwankwasiyya movement rather than disrespect.

Kwankwaso Responds to Governor Yusuf

The latest exchange followed remarks by Governor Yusuf, who reportedly criticised Kwankwaso over comments suggesting he was politically subordinate to him.

Reacting to the criticism, Kwankwaso argued that several politicians who rose through his political structure had previously been described in similar terms without controversy.

“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?” he said.

Reference to Ganduje Raises Attention

Kwankwaso also referenced former Kano State Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje while defending his position.

“How could even Ganduje deny that he was once my boy?” he added during the address to supporters.

The remarks appeared aimed at reinforcing his long-standing influence within Kano politics and the Kwankwasiyya political movement, which has remained one of the dominant political structures in the state for years.

Political Tension Within Kwankwasiyya

The comments have further fuelled speculation about growing tension between Kwankwaso and Governor Yusuf despite both figures being closely linked politically.

Governor Yusuf emerged under the Kwankwasiyya political structure and has repeatedly acknowledged Kwankwaso’s role in his political rise. However, recent public disagreements have triggered discussions about possible cracks within the movement.

Political observers in Kano believe the latest exchange may deepen internal divisions ahead of future political alignments in the state.

Supporters React as Debate Continues

The development has generated mixed reactions among supporters of both leaders, with some defending Kwankwaso’s comments as political reality while others described the remarks as unnecessary and disrespectful.

The dispute also comes amid heightened political activities and realignments ahead of the 2027 elections in Kano and across Nigeria.