Governor of Abba Kabir Yusuf on Monday broke his silence over his rift with his estranged political mentor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, warning that continued attacks against him could trigger a public response.
Yusuf, who spoke in Rano during the official affirmation of Sulaiman Kawu Sumaila as the All Progressives Congress senatorial candidate for Kano South, said his restraint should not be mistaken for weakness.
The governor’s remarks mark his first direct and confrontational response since his fallout with Kwankwaso earlier in 2026, signalling a deepening crisis between the former allies.
“For us, peace in Kano remains our priority. But if we are pushed to the wall, we will open our mouths and talk. Silence is not a sign of fear,” Yusuf said.
He added that his decision to remain quiet in the face of criticisms was borne out of respect, not intimidation.
“To keep quiet is an act of worship, not because we are afraid or because we are children. How can a 69-year-old call a 63-year-old a child? It is simply out of respect because you are slightly older,” he said.
Yusuf, however, warned that continued provocation could force him to reveal details he has so far withheld.
“If an elder refuses to respect himself, the younger one will respond. We are pleading with them, in the name of Almighty Allah and His Messenger, to restrain themselves. Otherwise, you will hear a lot of revelations,” he added.
The governor’s outburst follows recent comments by Kwankwaso, a leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, who criticised Yusuf for dumping the political structure that aided his rise to power.
Kwankwaso, in a recent interview, reportedly described Yusuf’s decision as a “grave mistake” and boasted that the movement was instrumental in making the former personal assistant governor.
The exchange underscores widening cracks within Kano’s political landscape, with analysts warning that the feud could reshape alliances ahead of future elections.
‘
‘Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
Leave a comment