Group Accuses Kwankwaso Of Divisive Rhetoric, Instigating Regional Tensions

Abuja, Nigeria – The Democratic Front (TDF) has issued a strong rebuke of former Kano Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, accusing him of making “dubious and vicious insinuations” and spreading harmful regional divisions.

Kwankwaso’s recent comments suggesting Lagos is attempting to “colonise the North” have drawn the ire of the TDF, who characterise his statements as deliberately provocative and irresponsible.

In a statement jointly signed by Chairman Mallam Danjuma Muhammad and Secretary Chief Wale Adedayo, the TDF condemned Kwankwaso’s remarks as “mischievous, devious, and insulting.”

They questioned the former presidential candidate’s motives, suggesting his comments were designed to exploit regional tensions rather than engage constructively with the proposed federal tax reform.

The TDF expressed particular concern over Kwankwaso’s portrayal of the Kano Emirate chieftaincy crisis, blaming him for attempting to deflect responsibility for the controversy onto Lagos.

They argued that the crisis, stemming from Governor Abba Yusuf’s decision to dethrone Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, is a matter of internal Kano politics and should not be framed as a regional conflict.

The group further criticised Kwankwaso for failing to acknowledge the substantial efforts of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to address the socio-economic challenges facing Northern Nigeria.

They cited several initiatives, including the National Almajiri Commission, the Pulaku Initiative, the large-scale tomato processing plant in Kebbi State, the new Ministry of Livestock Development, and the completion of the Zungeru power plant, as evidence of the government’s commitment to the region’s development.

The TDF also highlighted the significant number of Northern students benefitting from the new student loan scheme.

The TDF called on Kwankwaso to cease his divisive rhetoric and instead commend President Tinubu’s efforts.

They urged Nigerians in the North to disregard Kwankwaso’s inflammatory statements and embrace the government’s policies aimed at fostering national unity and development.

The statement concluded with a plea for national unity and an appeal for responsible political discourse.