Kwankwaso Rebuts Yusuf’s “Boy” Remark
Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement and a senior figure in the Nigerian Democratic Congress, has fired back at Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf after the governor labelled his earlier comments as disrespectful.
During a recent interview with Trust TV, Kwankwaso referred to Yusuf as “Abba PA,” insisting that he had personally nurtured the governor’s political career and facilitated his rise to office.
Yusuf, who is 63, reacted by saying it was inappropriate for a 69‑year‑old to call him a boy, describing the remark as insolent and demanding respect.
Kwankwaso Cites Loyalty of Former Allies
Addressing supporters at his Miller Road residence in Kano on Wednesday, Kwankwaso challenged the notion that political mentees reject the “boy” label.
“I heard that some people say they dislike being called boys. If not for insolence, how could former Representatives Mai Gidan Ruwa or Aminu Goro claim they were not my boys politically? How could even Ganduje deny that he was once my boy?” he asked.
The former presidential candidate stressed that his remarks were purely political, reflecting the mentorship role he played in shaping the careers of numerous Kano politicians.
First Public Exchange Since Their Split
Yusuf’s comments marked his first public criticism of Kwankwaso since the two politicians ended their alliance earlier this year. The governor had previously stated that Kwankwaso’s repeated remarks should not be seen as a sign of weakness or fear.
He added that his silence over the months was a deliberate choice, not an indication of inability to respond, and warned Kwankwaso to “respect himself” or risk further revelations.
Since their split, Kwankwaso has repeatedly accused Yusuf of betrayal, pointing out that the governor won his election under the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) banner before defecting to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
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