Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has broken his silence regarding the “frequent attacks” from his estranged political benefactor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. Addressing a gathering of All Progressives Congress (APC) party supporters in Rano during the official affirmation of Sulaiman Kawu Sumaila as the senatorial candidate for Kano South, Governor Yusuf issued a stern warning, stating that his previous silence should not be misconstrued as fear. He indicated that he would soon begin to speak out and reveal information if he and his administration were continuously provoked.

This direct confrontation marks a significant turn in the relationship between Governor Yusuf and the Kwankwasiyya leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, since their political separation earlier this year. Governor Yusuf emphasized his administration's commitment to maintaining peace in Kano State but firmly declared that there are limits to his forbearance. “For us, Kano peace is our priority, but if we are pushed to the wall, we will open our mouths and talk. Silence is not a sign of fear,” he asserted, underscoring the gravity of his warning.

Furthermore, Governor Yusuf addressed a personal slight, referencing an instance where Kwankwaso reportedly referred to him as a “kid.” Yusuf pointed out the age difference between them, highlighting that he is 63 years old while Kwankwaso is 69. He stated, “Even to keep quiet is an act of worship, not because we are afraid, not because we are kids. How could a 69-year-old call a 63-year-old a kid? It is just a personal respect that you are slightly older than I am.” He added a veiled threat, warning that if an older person does not respect themselves by maintaining decorum, younger individuals would be compelled to speak up. Governor Yusuf concluded his remarks by appealing to his detractors, “So, we are pleading with them in the name of the Almighty and His Messenger to keep their mouths shut. Otherwise, you will hear a lot of revelations.”

Governor Yusuf’s public challenge comes in the wake of an exclusive interview given by Kwankwaso to Trust TV, where the former governor reportedly stated that Yusuf had made a grave error by departing from the Kwankwasiyya Movement. During the interview, Kwankwaso, a chieftain of the Nigeria Democratic Coalition (NDC), also reportedly boasted about the instrumental role the Kwankwasiyya Movement played in elevating his former personal assistant, Abba Kabir Yusuf, to the gubernatorial position.