In every political movement, moments arise when difficult choices must be made. Such moments often test loyalty, redefine priorities, and expose deeper questions about purpose and responsibility. The Kwankwasiya movement is no exception. Recent debates over the decision of some Kwankwasiya members to remain with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, rather than follow Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, have sparked accusations of betrayal.
These claims, however, miss the bigger picture and risk weakening the very ideals upon which Kwankwasiya was founded.
Kwankwasiya was never intended to be a personality cult. From its inception, it was built on enduring principles—social justice, good governance, unity, and progress for the people of Kano and beyond. These ideals cannot be owned or monopolised by any single individual, no matter how influential or revered. To suggest that loyalty to Kwankwasiya must always and only translate into loyalty to one person is to reduce a movement that was designed to serve millions.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf was not imposed on the people of Kano. He emerged through a democratic process and earned the mandate of the electorate. Supporting him, therefore, is not an act of rebellion but a demonstration of respect for the will of the people. Kwankwasiya members who choose to work with the sitting governor are embracing stability, continuity, and the opportunity to translate long-held ideals into practical and meaningful governance outcomes.
True betrayal would mean abandoning the people of Kano, sabotaging a government they freely elected, or placing personal loyalty above the public interest. Those who remain with Governor Yusuf have done the opposite. They recognise that governance is a collective responsibility and that progress is achieved through cooperation, not perpetual internal conflict. Their decision reflects political maturity and a clear understanding that movements must evolve if they are to remain relevant and effective.
Unity has always been a defining strength of Kano politics. History has consistently shown that internal divisions only delay development and weaken the state’s bargaining power at the national level. At a time when Kano faces serious economic, social, and infrastructural challenges, the state cannot afford prolonged political infighting. Standing with the governor is, therefore, a practical way of safeguarding unity and ensuring that governance is not held hostage by factional disputes.
In the final analysis, Kwankwasiya members who remain with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf are not betrayers. They are pragmatists, bridge-builders, and patriots of Kano State. They believe that the true spirit of Kwankwasiya is best preserved not through blind allegiance, but through actions that promote unity, stability, and tangible progress for the people.
Kano’s future depends not on personalities, but on how faithfully the ideals of justice, fairness, and development are upheld. Supporting the elected governor in the pursuit of these goals is not betrayal—it is responsibility.
Comrade Kabiru Saidu Dakata is the Director-General of the Kano State Signage and Advertisement Agency (KASAA) and can be reached via kabirudakata@gmail.com
