Kano Power Clash Escalates as Yusuf Fires Back at Kwankwaso Over ‘Small Boy’ Remark

(Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf (L) and Rabiu Kwankwaso(R). Photo Credit: Leadership News)

Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has hit back at his former political mentor and predecessor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, after the latter referred to him as a "small boy" during an interview.

Speaking to supporters in Kano, Yusuf warned Kwankwaso to watch his words, saying he had kept quiet out of respect and loyalty but had reached his limit when it came to personal attacks.

The governor was responding to remarks made by Kwankwaso, a former leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, in which he accused Yusuf of betrayal and pledged to remove him from office in the 2027 governorship election.

Yusuf questioned the logic of a 69-year-old man referring to a 63-year-old as a boy, saying he had tolerated such comments in the spirit of deference but would begin speaking more openly if the provocations continued.

While stressing that peace and stability in Kano State remain his top priority, Yusuf made clear that he would not shy away from defending himself if pushed further, signalling that the growing rift between the two former allies could soon become even more public and confrontational.