Abba Yusuf, governor of Kano, says his relationship with Rabiu Kwankwaso, presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in the 2023 elections, remains strong and without rift.

Yusuf spoke on Wednesday at a lecture organised to mark Kwankwaso’s 69th birthday in Madobi LGA of Kano.

In a statement by Mustapha Muhammad, his press secretary, the governor reaffirmed that he is committed to sustaining the ideals of the Kwankwasiyya movement, which, according to him, has continued to drive development in Kano.

“I assure the Kwankwasiyya followers that we will sustain the movement’s ideology, and various initiatives are already underway,” Yusuf said.

He said those anticipating division within the movement would be disappointed, describing Kwankwaso as a leader with an outstanding record of service since childhood.

The governor also thanked Kamilu Fagge, a professor of political science, and Bello Kano, a literary scholar, for their prayers against those he described as “enemies of peace” in the state.

On his part, Kwankwaso commended the progress recorded under Yusuf’s administration and expressed appreciation to the large crowd that gathered from within and outside Kano to celebrate his birthday.

A few months ago, there were reports about a faction called “Abba Tsaya da Kafarka” (Abba, Stand on Your Feet), allegedly spearheaded by Baffa Bichi, former secretary to the state government (SSG), and Salisu Digol, an ex-commissioner for transportation.