In Kano, the political alliance between Governor Abba Yusuf and his mentor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, is reportedly under strain, with mounting calls for Yusuf to assert his independence, Daily Nigerian reports.
The slogan “Abba Tsaya da Kafarka,” meaning “Abba, stand on your feet,” is spreading across the state, encouraging the governor to distance himself from Kwankwaso’s influence.
Reports suggest that Governor Yusuf has recently skipped meetings called by Kwankwaso and has been unresponsive to his outreach, fueling speculation of a split. The phrase has resonated within the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), where some members are positioning Yusuf for a possible defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
A recent Abia State High Court ruling that returned control of the NNPP to former leader Boniface Aniebonam is seen by analysts as a potential trigger for discord within the party, possibly clearing a path for Yusuf’s exit.
High-ranking officials in Yusuf’s administration, including the Secretary to the State Government, Baffa Bichi, are reportedly advocating for the governor’s autonomy from Kwankwaso’s oversight.
The tension between Yusuf and Kwankwaso has reportedly simmered since March when Kwankwaso appointed local government caretakers without the governor’s input. In response, Yusuf dismissed these caretakers in September, disregarding Kwankwaso’s directive to extend their tenure.
An insider close to Yusuf disclosed that while the governor respects Kwankwaso’s role in his career, he is increasingly frustrated with Kwankwaso’s involvement, particularly in local governance issues.8″Abba doesn’t want to disrespect Kwankwaso, but he is keen on independence,” the source said.
Efforts by Kwankwaso to regain influence have reportedly been rebuffed by Yusuf, who has avoided meetings and dismissed attempts by intermediaries to press him to remove Bichi, seen as a central figure in the push for independence. In response, NNPP leaders in Kano have moved to expel Bichi and others for alleged anti-party activities.
The rift is now visible within the Kwankwasiyya movement, with some party members distancing themselves from Kwankwaso. Ali Madaki, representing Dala Federal Constituency, has renounced his Kwankwasiyya ties and urged others to do the same, with more lawmakers expected to follow suit.
As more NNPP members side with the governor, insiders suggest the party could face major realignments in Kano. So far, Kwankwaso’s camp has remained silent, though sources close to him reportedly view Yusuf’s actions as a setback.
The governor’s spokesperson has declined to comment. As the “Abba Tsaya da Kafarka” slogan gains momentum, the political landscape in Kano remains in flux, with the NNPP facing a pivotal moment.