Aliyu Sani Madakin-Gini, the Dala Federal Constituency Representative, has shed light on the tensions brewing between Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf and NNPP leader Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. According to Madakin-Gini, the conflict stems from disagreements over a state-funded drug contract and a scholarship program.
Governor Yusuf, elected under the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), appears to be at odds with Kwankwaso, who is also the head of the influential Kwankwasiyya Movement in Kano. In a recent statement, Madakin-Gini, who was once aligned with Kwankwaso, suggested that their relationship has been strained by issues of loyalty and governance.
Speaking to his supporters, Madakin-Gini asserted that Kwankwaso expects unwavering loyalty from party members and wishes to retain control across all 44 local government areas. He explained that Governor Yusuf’s push to investigate alleged irregularities in drug contracts is one of the core issues causing friction. In this case, Kwankwaso's nephew was awarded the contract for all the state’s local government areas, a deal currently under review by the state’s anti-corruption commission. Governor Yusuf has denied knowledge of the contract's details and has ordered an investigation into its legitimacy.
The scholarship program has also become a source of contention. Originally intended to sponsor over 1,000 beneficiaries, only 400 reportedly received support. Kwankwaso is said to be dissatisfied with Yusuf’s inquiry into the discrepancies and with his refusal to dismiss certain officials, including Secretary to the State Government Baffa Bichi and Commissioner for Transport Muhammad Diggol, who have aligned with Yusuf’s vision for greater independence from Kwankwaso’s influence.
Madakin-Gini, who recently left the Kwankwasiyya Movement, has also faced repercussions within the party, including his suspension by ward leaders. He criticized Kwankwaso’s insistence on complete control, remarking that Governor Yusuf was expected to be “a puppet” and highlighting the challenges Yusuf faces in balancing party loyalty with his mandate as governor.
At the time of this report, Kwankwaso has yet to address these claims publicly.
