Tag: Governor Abba Yusuf

  • Kwankwaso Fires Back at Governor Yusuf, Defends “Political Boy” Comment

    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.

  • Kano Governor Yusuf Denies Link to Underwear Display at Remi Tinubu Rally

    Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has denied any involvement in the controversial display of red underwear during a rally held in honour of First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu.

    The incident, which surfaced in viral videos over the weekend, sparked widespread reactions online.

    Yusuf Distances Self from Event

    Speaking during a special prayer session at the Government House in Kano, the governor said he neither approved nor had prior knowledge of the activity.

    “We were going about our normal activities when I was informed that some young women displayed inappropriate items. I was not aware of it,” he said.

    Condemns Display as ‘Inappropriate’

    Yusuf described the act as unacceptable, stressing that it contradicts the cultural and religious values of the state.

    “Such actions are against our culture and the teachings of Islam, and we strongly condemn them,” he added.

    Controversy Trails Viral Videos

    The display had earlier been linked to an alleged empowerment initiative, with reports suggesting it was backed by the state government.

    However, the governor’s reaction has now distanced the administration from the development.

     

  • Gov Yusuf Nominates Atiku’s Son-in-Law Garo as Kano Deputy Governor

    Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has forwarded the name of Murtala Sule Garo to the State House of Assembly for screening and confirmation as deputy governor, weeks after the position became vacant.

    The nomination, which was formally transmitted to lawmakers, places Garo, who is reportedly the son-in-law of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, in line to take over the role pending legislative approval.

    How the vacancy emerged

    The deputy governorship seat became vacant on March 27, 2026, following the resignation of Aminu Gwarzo, who later defected after falling out with Governor Yusuf in a deepening political rift.

    Before his exit, the Kano State House of Assembly had already initiated impeachment proceedings against Gwarzo over allegations of gross misconduct, abuse of office, breach of public trust and financial mismanagement.

    Governor Yusuf had also accused the former deputy governor of attempting to undermine his administration, escalating tensions that eventually led to his resignation.

    Details of the nomination

    In a statement signed by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mustapha Muhammad, the nomination was said to be in line with Section 191(3) of the 1999 Constitution, which empowers a governor to appoint a replacement when the office becomes vacant.

    The statement noted that the decision followed consultations with key political stakeholders across the state, with the governor seeking swift approval from the Assembly to fill the gap in his administration.

    Muhammad described Garo as a “seasoned political administrator” with extensive experience spanning over two decades in both elective and appointed positions.

    Garo’s political profile

    The 48-year-old politician has held several roles, including State Organising Secretary of his party, Special Adviser to the Kano State Governor, and Chairman of Kabo Local Government Area.

    He also served as Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Kano, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and was the deputy governorship candidate of the APC in the 2023 general elections.

    According to the statement, his nomination is part of efforts by the Yusuf administration to strengthen governance structures and ensure continuity in service delivery across the state.