In a strongly worded speech to his supporters, the National Leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement and former Governor of Kano State, Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, finally spoke out about the recent wave of defections from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He described the move as the “worst form of political betrayal” by individuals who had enjoyed the trust and support of the people.
Addressing the crowd at his Miller Road residence in Kano on Friday evening, Kwankwaso welcomed a large number of supporters from Takai Local Government Area, who had resisted pressures and offers to abandon the NNPP.
Defections Seen as a Breach of Faith
Although he did not directly mention names, his remarks pointed clearly to Kano South, the stronghold of Senator Abdulrahman Kawu, one of the recent defectors. He condemned the defectors for turning their backs on the very people who had supported them with great hope and determination.
He reminded the audience how voters in Kano South had rejected food items, cash, and wrappers just to vote for NNPP, showing their commitment to change. Yet, some of those who benefitted from the people’s votes had now turned around to join parties that, in Kwankwaso’s view, prioritise selfish interests.
He described such moves as the highest level of political betrayal.
“To jump ship after the party gave you a platform, recognition, and victory is nothing short of political ingratitude,” he said.
A Word for the Youth and Ambitious Politicians
Kwankwaso also called on young Nigerians to stay alert and not fall for politicians whose only aim is to grab power.
“They’ll come to you with sweet talk and juicy promises, but their loyalty is always up for sale,” he warned. “Kwankwasiyya is not an easy movement to crush. Those fighting it will realise this when the real contest begins.”
