Political analyst Tony-Uche Ezekwelu has reacted to the reported political rift between Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and his political protégé, Abba Kabir Yusuf, amid recent developments within Kano’s political landscape.
Ezekwelu made the remarks during an interview on Trust TV, where he assessed the implications of Yusuf’s reported alignment with the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Kwankwaso’s resignation from the New Nigeria Peoples Party.
During the interview, Ezekwelu highlighted the enduring influence of Kwankwaso’s political movement, stating, “I saw the Kano people in Abuja over the weekend for the APC convention. They were still wearing the red cap.” The red cap is widely recognized as a symbol of the Kwankwasiyya movement, a political ideology and support base closely associated with Kwankwaso.
His observation suggests that despite the apparent political realignments and tensions between Kwankwaso and Yusuf, the loyalty of grassroots supporters may not have shifted entirely. Analysts say this could indicate a more complex political dynamic in Kano State, where personal allegiance and political structures do not always move in tandem.
The fallout between the former allies has generated significant attention, with many questioning its potential impact on the political strength of both figures ahead of future elections. Yusuf, once seen as Kwankwaso’s political heir, now appears to be charting an independent course, a move that could reshape alliances in the state.