Ilyasu Musa Kwankwaso, a prominent figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC), has launched an attack on Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso, the leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), in light of the recent suspension of Dr. Abdullahi Bappah Bichi, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) of Kano State.
At a press conference held in Kano on Wednesday, Ilyasu Kwankwaso asserted that the suspension of Dr. Bichi corroborated his long-held suspicions about Rabiu Kwankwaso’s alleged political machinations. He labeled the NNPP leader a “political merchant,” claiming he is willing to eliminate any opposition to achieve his objectives.
“The suspension of the SSG confirms my views on Kwankwaso. It highlights his readiness to act harshly against anyone who stands in his way in his relentless quest for political power,” the APC stalwart remarked.
Ilyasu Kwankwaso also contested Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso’s assertion that the SSG’s suspension was solely executed by NNPP State Chairman, Hon. Hashim Dungurawa. He alleged that Rabiu was the architect behind the suspension, seeking to tighten his grip on Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
“I have consistently stated that Kwankwaso’s ambition is to completely dominate the governor as he pursues his 2027 presidential aspirations. This is just the beginning; the SSG’s suspension is just a glimpse of what’s to come. More notable figures in the NNPP will be targeted if they are seen as threats,” he cautioned.
The APC member voiced concerns that Governor Yusuf’s political integrity might be jeopardized if he continues to be swayed by Rabiu Kwankwaso’s influence. He urged the governor to assert his independence to protect his political future and maintain the respect of the Kano electorate.
Ilyasu Kwankwaso also warned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC against integrating Rabiu Kwankwaso into their ranks, suggesting that such a decision could jeopardize the party’s cohesion. “While the APC is welcoming to new members, our leaders must be vigilant against those who could disrupt our progress,” he noted.
He further contended that the NNPP’s electoral success in Kano during the previous election was not merely a reflection of Rabiu Kwankwaso’s popularity, but rather the efforts of other former APC members like Senator Kawu Sumaila and Hon. Kabiru Al-Hassan Rurum.
Ilyasu Kwankwaso commended Hon. Abba Kabir Bichi, the Chairman of the Appropriation Committee in the House of Representatives, for his contributions to the APC, highlighting his empowerment programs and scholarship initiatives as significant factors in bolstering the party’s appeal in Kano.