A former governor of Kano State and leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Dr Rabiu Kwankwaso, has directed all government appointees and members of the State and National Assemblies to endorse the list of loyalists being compiled by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf ahead of his defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The list is reportedly being prepared for negotiations on political stakes as the governor finalises his move to the APC.
In a video address circulated on social media, Kwankwaso acknowledged intense pressure on appointees, caucus members and lawmakers to sign the endorsement list.
“I am dismayed by the government’s decision to put pressure on local chairmen and councillors, secretaries and other appointees to choose between Kwankwasiyya (NNPP) and Gandujiyya (APC).
“This is indeed troubling. All our supporters, not only in Kano but nationwide, will not be happy with this,” he said.
Kwankwaso recalled past political betrayals in Kano, particularly in 2015, when supporters endured losses but reclaimed victory in 2019 and 2023 through popular votes.
“Drawing from history, we have seen what happened in our dear state, especially in 2015 when we witnessed the worst form of betrayal. Our supporters resigned to their fate because of the patriotism and waited till 2019.
“Even though we had no any political office such as chairmen or councillors, no lawmakers but a few ones, they (APC) had everything at their behest. And despite this, people voted for us. Although everyone knows we won the election, they robbed us of our victory.
“We therefore waited patiently till 2023, and people came out en masse to vote for this present government with the hope of getting good governance,” he added.
He emphasised that the NNPP’s Kwankwasiyya movement is rooted in loyalty, stating: “Our system (Kwankwasiyya) is built on loyalty. Whoever chooses to be disloyal, the only option is to leave (defect).
“The choice in Kano is between light and dark. And we are happy the people have understood this.”
Kwankwaso described the appointees’ distress, noting: “The appointees are in a dire situation, they are disturbed since the issue of going to Tinubu and Ganduje’s party came up. A number of local government chairmen and some councillors have called me, lamenting about their dilemma. Some are in distress and hospitalised, while others are having sleepless nights.”
After consultations, he urged compliance to ease tensions, saying: “After due consultation, in view of the fact that our supporters have given so much towards bringing the government — and the government is owing them — we call on the chairmen, councillors and all others to append their signatures.
“We believe it not yet electioneering period of 2027, and our supporters wherever they are will show up in the time of need.
“If signing the loyalty list will take them out of the distressing situation they found themselves in and also douse the tension in the state, so be it.”
