Kano Governor Suspends Senior Aide Over Inflammatory Remarks Against Kwankwaso

In a move that underscores the rising sensitivity around internal political dynamics in Kano State, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has suspended one of his senior aides, Ibrahim Rabi’u, for making what the government described as an “unauthorised and inflammatory statement” against former governor and political heavyweight, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

The announcement, made on Saturday, signals the administration’s firm commitment to maintaining discipline within its ranks and managing the delicate relationships that define the state’s political landscape. Rabi’u, who held the position of Senior Special Reporter (SSR) in the Ministry of Transportation, is currently under official investigation and has received a formal query from the government.

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According to the statement signed by Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, Director General of Media and Publicity at the Government House, and released through the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ibrahim, the controversial comment made by Rabi’u did not reflect the views of the Kano State Government. Instead, the statement described the remarks as “solely coming from the author for reasons best known to him.”

Though the exact contents of Rabi’u’s remarks were not detailed in the release, sources familiar with the matter revealed that the aide made speculative comments about Kwankwaso’s potential defection, sparking outrage among members of the political establishment and party loyalists.

Governor Yusuf, a close political ally of Kwankwaso and a member of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), has made it clear that loyalty, order, and respect for institutional communication protocols remain non-negotiable principles of his administration.

In line with this, the government warned that no political appointee is allowed to make public statements on politically sensitive issues or policy matters without prior authorization. This, the statement said, is vital to preventing miscommunication that can lead to instability or misrepresentation of government positions.

The administration also used the occasion to reinforce the official channels for communicating state policy and political decisions. The statement emphasized that only the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Garba Wayya, is authorized to speak for the Kano State Government, while Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa remains the exclusive spokesperson for the Governor.

“This administration remains committed to ensuring that public communication reflects the values of integrity, accuracy, and collective responsibility,” the statement read, further describing Rabi’u’s action as a breach of professional ethics and internal code of conduct for government appointees.

The suspended aide has been issued an official query and is expected to respond in writing, outlining the motivations and context behind his statements. Depending on the outcome of the inquiry, Rabi’u may face additional disciplinary measures, including possible dismissal.

Tensions Within the NNPP?

The timing of the suspension has raised questions about underlying tensions within the NNPP, particularly in the wake of growing political speculation concerning Kwankwaso’s next moves. As the national leader of the NNPP and a former Minister of Defence, Kwankwaso commands significant influence, not just in Kano, but across Northern Nigeria.

Any unverified claim or insinuation concerning his political trajectory, especially a defection, could carry heavy implications for the stability of the party and the direction of the Yusuf-led government.

Analysts say Governor Yusuf’s swift response aims to protect party unity and reaffirm the administration’s alignment with Kwankwaso’s leadership. “Any false narrative about Kwankwaso’s future could lead to internal panic or factionalism within the NNPP,” political analyst Ibrahim Idris told The Nation. “Yusuf acted fast to contain the damage and reassert loyalty to his political benefactor.”

Beyond the immediate incident, the suspension of Ibrahim Rabi’u serves as a cautionary tale for other government functionaries in Kano State. The Governor has reaffirmed his zero-tolerance stance on insubordination and unauthorized public commentary, especially on matters that could jeopardize relationships within the NNPP or sow discord in the state’s political environment.

The statement concluded by reminding appointees of their responsibility to uphold the principles of collective governance and disciplined communication. It also called for enhanced internal collaboration and respect for defined administrative roles.

As Kano State continues to navigate a politically sensitive period, Governor Yusuf’s administration appears resolute in preserving its internal cohesion and managing the delicate balance of power within the state and its party hierarchy.