Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has reacted strongly to comments made by his former political mentor and ex-governor of Kano State, Rabiu Kwankwaso, amid rising political tension in the state.
Speaking during a public gathering in Kano, Governor Yusuf warned that he would respond more openly if Kwankwaso continues to make statements he considers disrespectful.
His reaction comes after Kwankwaso, in a recent interview, accused him of betrayal and declared his intention to defeat him in the 2027 governorship election.
The governor expressed shock over what he described as a “small boy” remark allegedly directed at him, questioning how such a statement could come from an older political figure.
According to him, he had remained silent out of respect, but warned that his patience should not be taken for weakness.
“How can a 69-year-old man call someone who is 63 a boy? I kept quiet because of respect,” he said.
Yusuf added that while he prefers peace and stability in Kano politics, he will not hesitate to speak out if pushed further.
“If he does not control his words, I will also begin to say things he may not like,” he warned.
The political rift between both men has continued to draw attention, especially following Yusuf’s emergence as governor under the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in 2023 and the growing disagreements within the party structure.