Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has rejected allegations of corruption leveled against the leader of the Kwankwasiyya political movement, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, by a former Secretary to the State Government, Abdullahi Baffa Bichi.
Speaking on Sunday during a meeting with 484 councillors from the state’s 44 local government areas, Governor Yusuf described the accusations as unfounded and malicious.
The governor was reacting to a viral video where Bichi alleged that the current administration had misappropriated more funds in two years than the previous government under Abdullahi Ganduje did over an eight-year period. He also accused Kwankwaso of receiving N2 billion monthly from the state’s treasury.
Governor Yusuf firmly denied the claims, calling them fabrications aimed at undermining both Kwankwaso’s legacy and the legitimacy of his own administration.
“One of our former appointees who was recently removed is now spreading lies, saying this government has stolen more in two years than Ganduje did in eight. If he was sincere, why didn’t he speak up while he was still in office?” the governor asked.
He further condemned Bichi’s comments as irresponsible, warning that such actions could erode respect for public figures and institutions, particularly among the youth.
“Our society is at risk when elders and respected leaders are insulted without consequence. We won’t tolerate this anymore. We are taking steps to address this kind of behavior,” Yusuf said.
He went on to defend Kwankwaso’s record, highlighting the former governor and minister’s contributions to national development.
“Senator Kwankwaso has served this country in various high-level positions and understands the weight of leadership. It is disgraceful for someone with limited achievements to attempt to discredit him,” the governor said.
Yusuf also issued a warning to media outlets, especially radio stations, cautioning them against broadcasting unverified and inflammatory statements.
“To those in the media who provide platforms for such reckless remarks, be reminded that we are monitoring the situation closely. If this trend continues, we will not hesitate to take action,” he said.
Reaffirming his loyalty, the governor said, “Wherever Kwankwaso goes, we go. We stand by him, and we are proud of the leadership he represents.”
He also used the occasion to call for unity among elected officials and urged councillors to focus on grassroots development, particularly in education, health, and agriculture.
“Our commitment to transparency is non-negotiable. Any official caught misusing public funds will be removed. We are also planning the renovation of local government secretariats to enhance rural development, improve services, and strengthen local security,” he concluded.