Loyalty, Unity And The Future Of Kano: Why Supporting Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf Is Not Betrayal

By Kabiru Saidu Dakata

In every political movement, moments arise when difficult choices must be made. These moments often test loyalty, redefine priorities, and expose deeper questions about purpose and responsibility. The Kwankwasiya movement is no exception. Recent debates surrounding the decision of some Kwankwasiya members to remain with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, rather than follow Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, have sparked accusations of betrayal. Such claims, however, miss the bigger picture and risk weakening the very ideals that Kwankwasiya stands for.

Kwankwasiya was never meant to be a personality cult. From its inception, it was built on principles: social justice, good governance, unity, and progress for the people of Kano and beyond. These ideals cannot be owned by one individual alone, no matter how influential or revered. To suggest that loyalty to Kwankwasiya must always and only mean loyalty to one person is to narrow a movement that was designed to serve millions.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf was not imposed on the people of Kano. He emerged through a democratic process and earned the mandate of the electorate. Supporting him, therefore, is not an act of rebellion; it is an act of respect for the will of the people. Kwankwasiya members who choose to work with the sitting governor are choosing stability, continuity, and the opportunity to translate long-held ideals into concrete governance outcomes.

True betrayal would mean abandoning the people of Kano, sabotaging a government they elected, or placing personal loyalty above public interest. Those who remain with Governor Yusuf have done the opposite. They recognize that governance is a collective responsibility and that progress is achieved through cooperation, not constant internal conflict. Their choice reflects maturity and a deep understanding that political movements must evolve to remain relevant.

Unity has always been the strength of Kano politics. History has shown that internal divisions only delay development and weaken bargaining power at the national level. At a time when Kano faces serious economic, social, and infrastructural challenges, the state cannot afford prolonged political infighting. Standing with the governor is a way of safeguarding unity and ensuring that governance is not held hostage by factional disputes.

In the end, Kwankwasiya members who remain with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf are not betrayers. They are pragmatists, bridge-builders, and patriots of Kano State. They believe that the true spirit of Kwankwasiya is best preserved not through blind allegiance, but through actions that promote unity, stability, and tangible progress for the people.

Kano’s future depends not on who is followed, but on how well the ideals of justice, fairness, and development are upheld. Supporting the elected governor in the pursuit of these goals is not betrayal, it is responsibility.

Comrade Kabiru Saidu Dakata is the Director General of the Kano State Signage and Advertisement Agency (KASAA), and can be reached via kabirudakata@gmail.com