Leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement and former Kano State Governor, Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, has accused the Kano State Government of allegedly coercing state officials and elected local government chairmen into signing documents signifying their defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Kwankwaso made the allegation in a statement posted on his verified social media platforms, describing the reports reaching him as disturbing. He claimed that affected officials were being pressured to sign documents indicating support for either the Gandujiyya or Kwankwasiyya political camps.
“I have received several reports—some encouraging and others deeply troubling—suggesting that the Kano State Government is forcing state officials and elected local government chairmen to sign documents either in support of Gandujiyya or Kwankwasiyya,” he said.
The former governor described the alleged action as unfortunate and advised those affected to comply if necessary to avoid victimisation.
“Since the situation has reached this level, the local government chairmen and councillors being compelled to sign the documents may do so in order to avoid being targeted by the government,” Kwankwaso stated.
He also thanked supporters of the Kwankwasiyya Movement for their loyalty and continued support.
Kano Government Denies Allegations
Responding to the claims, the Kano State Commissioner for Information, Ibrahim Waiya, denied that the government was forcing anyone to defect or act against their political will.
Waiya said the APC was only inviting individuals who were willing to join the party, including government officials, and that no form of coercion was involved.
“What actually happened is that our party is asking everyone—not just government officials—who is willing to join the APC to do so. No one is being forced, as has been reported,” he said.
The commissioner stressed that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf respects freedom of association and political choice, adding that the administration does not condone intimidation or forced defections.