Supporters of Rabiu Kwankwaso, the 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), converged on his Kano residence on Sunday in a show of loyalty following recent political shifts in the state.
The visit came shortly after the defection of Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf from NNPP to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), an act that Kwankwaso described as a betrayal.
In a statement on his official Facebook page, the former governor revealed that the visitors came from Nasarawa Local Government Area and expressed deep gratitude for their steadfast support.
“This afternoon, I was honoured to receive a solidarity visit at my residence in Kano from the resilient people of Nasarawa Local Government,” Kwankwaso said. “Despite the recent trials that have tested the faith and fortitude of many, they have chosen to stand firmly with us—not for personal gain, but for the collective progress and wellbeing of our people.”
Kwankwaso also reaffirmed his commitment to the ideals of the Kwankwasiyya movement, emphasizing unity and shared purpose. “Together, we remain resolute in upholding and advancing the timeless ideals of Kwankwasiyya. Thank you once again for your loyalty and solidarity. The journey continues, and victory is assured by the grace of God and the will of the people,” he added.
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The visit underscores the continued influence of Kwankwaso in Kano politics, even in the wake of defections and political realignments.
Governor Yusuf’s move to APC had been publicly condemned by Kwankwaso, who marked the day of his departure as ‘World Betrayal Day.’
Analysts say the solidarity visit signals that, despite the governor’s exit, the grassroots support for Kwankwaso remains strong, with party loyalists rallying around the former governor as he prepares for future political engagements.