Don’t Mistake My Silence for Fear — Gov Yusuf Tackles Kwankwaso Over Frequent Attacks

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has responded to his former political mentor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, over what he described as repeated verbal attacks, insisting that his silence should not be taken as weakness.

Speaking on Monday during the official affirmation of Sulaiman Kawu Sumaila as the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial candidate for Kano South in Rano, Governor Yusuf warned that he may be forced to respond if provoked further.

He stressed that his restraint was deliberate and rooted in his commitment to peace in the state.

“For us, Kano peace is our priority, but if we are pushed to the wall, we will open our mouths and talk. Silence is not a sign of fear,” he said.

He added that his quiet approach should not be mistaken for intimidation or lack of response.

“To even keep quiet is an act of worship, not because we are afraid, not because we are kids. How could a 69-year-old call a 63-year-old a kid? It is just a personal respect that you are slightly elder than me,” Yusuf stated.

The governor further cautioned against continued public criticism, warning that restraint should not be taken for granted.

“However, if an old man does not respect himself and keeps quiet, the younger one will have what to say. So, we are pleading with them in the name of Almighty and His Messenger to keep their mouths shut. Else, you will hear a lot of revelations,” he added.

Yusuf’s remarks come after Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, said in an interview that the governor made a mistake by leaving the movement.

Kwankwaso also claimed that the political structure that produced Yusuf was responsible for his emergence as governor.