Mohammed Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso is one of the most talked about politicians in Nigeria right now. He is a leading politician who served as governor of Kano State from 1999 to 2003 and from 2011 to 2015. After he lost his re-election in 2003, he was appointed the first Minister of Defence of the Fourth Republic with no prior military background, from 2003 to 2007, under the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo. He was later elected to the Senate in 2015, serving one term under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) representing Kano Central Senatorial District.
He currently serves as the national leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party and holds a strong opposition bloc in Kano.
Kwankwaso enjoys widespread support in Kano and North-Western. He has been viewed as a charismatic populist. In 2011, he was re-elected governor of the state and went on to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2014. In 2015, Kwankwaso unsuccessfully contested the presidential primaries nomination under the opposition of the All Progressives Congress but lost to Muhammadu Buhari. In 2018, he returned to Peoples Democratic Party and contested the presidential primaries, losing to Atiku Abubakar. In 2023, Kwankwaso unsuccessfully ran for President of Nigeria under the platform of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, receiving 6.23% of the vote.
Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso was born on 21 October 1956 in Kano, to a Muslim family. His father held the position of the Village Head of Kwankwaso with the title of Sarkin Fulani Dagacin Kwankwaso before being elevated to the position of the District Head of Madobi with the title of Majidadin Kano, Hakimin Madobi by the Kano Emirate Council under the leadership of the 13th Fulani Emir of Kano Alhaji Ado Bayero.
He attended Kwankwaso Primary School, Gwarzo Boarding Senior Primary School, Wudil Craft School and Kano Technical College before proceeding to Kaduna Polytechnic where he did both his National Diploma, and Higher National Diploma. Kwankwaso was an active student leader during his school days and was an elected official of the Kano State Students Association. He also attended postgraduate studies in the United Kingdom from 1982 to 1983 at the Middlesex Polytechnic; and Loughborough University of Technology where he received a Master’s degree in civil engineering in 1985. He also Awarded a PhD in civil engineering from Sharda University India, in 2022.
Kwankwaso joined the Kano State Water Resources and Engineering Construction Agency of the Government of Kano State in 1975. He served there for seventeen years in various capacities and rose through the ranks to become the principal water engineer.
In 1992, Kwankwaso made his entry into Politics on the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP). He was a member of the People’s Front faction of the SDP led by General Shehu Yar’adua and other popular politicians such as his former boss Senator Magaji Abdullahi, Babagana Kingibe, Atiku Abubakar, Bola Tinubu, Tony Anenih, Chuba Okadigbo, Abdullahi Aliyu Sumaila, Abubakar Koko and Lamidi Adedibu amongst others.
In 1992, Kwankwaso was elected as a member of the House of Representatives representing Madobi Federal Constituency. His subsequent election as Deputy Speaker in the House brought him to the limelight of National Politics. During the 1995 Constitutional Conference, Kwankwaso was elected as one of the delegates from Kano, as a member of the People’s Democratic Movement led by Yar’adua. He later joined the Democratic Party of Nigeria (DPN) in the political transition program of General Sani Abacha.
Kwankwaso joined the PDP in 1998 under the platform of People’s Democratic Movement in Kano led by Mallam Musa Gwadabe, Senator Hamisu Musa and Alhaji Abdulla…
As you read this, there’s speculation about Kwankwaso’s possible return to the APC, with APC’s National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, suggesting the party is open to welcoming him back. However, Kwankwaso has denied these rumors, stating Ganduje might consider joining the NNPP instead.
Kwankwaso is part of a coalition with other opposition figures, including Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, to form a united front against the APC.
Kwankwaso and Ganduje have a long-standing feud, with both parties jostling for influence ahead of the 2027 elections. President Bola Tinubu has intervened, urging Ganduje and Kwankwaso to mend relations and work towards party unity.
Kwankwaso is the leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement and has been involved in disputes over the NNPP’s leadership and direction.
Kwankwaso’s role in the opposition coalition and potential alliance with the APC could significantly impact the 2027 elections, particularly in Kano State, where both figures have a strong presence.
Is he likely going to go to APC?
Rabiu Kwankwaso’s potential defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been a topic of speculation, with mixed signals emerging.
Kwankwaso’s associate, Buba Galadima, has denied rumors of Kwankwaso joining the APC, stating there’s no concrete evidence to support such claims. Galadima emphasized that Kwankwaso remains committed to the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).
Despite denials, some APC members, like Musa Illyasu Kwankwaso, claim Kwankwaso is making subtle moves to join the APC to pave the way for Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s re-election in 2027.
The NNPP has expressed willingness to let Kwankwaso join the APC, describing him as a divisive figure who betrayed the party’s trust. The party’s national secretary, Oginni Olaposi, stated that Kwankwaso’s potential defection would be a relief.
Some APC members, like Abdullahi Ganduje, have hinted at welcoming Kwankwaso back into the party. However, Ganduje’s resignation as APC National Chairman has added complexity to the situation.
It’s unclear whether Kwankwaso will ultimately join the APC, as his plans and intentions remain uncertain.
But he is close to Tinubu as speculated?
Insiders say yes. Rabiu Kwankwaso’s relationship with President Bola Tinubu appears to be cordial, with several instances of them meeting and discussing matters of national interest. Here are some key points about their relationship.
Kwankwaso met with Tinubu in France in May 2023, where they discussed national unity, cohesion, and development, according to Abdulmumin Jibrin, a lawmaker and former coordinator of Tinubu’s campaign group.
There’s been speculation about Kwankwaso potentially joining the APC or forming an alliance with Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections. However, Kwankwaso’s spokesman, Ladipo Johnson, denied rumors of his defection, stating that Kwankwaso remains committed to the NNPP.
Some APC members have reportedly approached Johnson about a potential alliance between Kwankwaso and Tinubu, with Kwankwaso possibly taking on a key role in the APC. Johnson confirmed that Kwankwaso is open to discussions with anyone who wants to move the country forward.
Kwankwaso’s potential move to the APC has caused disquiet among some party members, particularly in Kano State, where there’s concern about preferential treatment for new entrants and potential sacrifices for existing party members.
It’s worth noting that Kwankwaso’s relationship with Tinubu seems to be pragmatic, with both leaders exploring potential alliances that could benefit their respective interests. However, the future of their relationship and any potential alliances remains uncertain.
Rabiu Kwankwaso is a formidable political figure known for his charisma, grassroots connections, and ideological defiance. His influence can be seen in several areas.
Kwankwasiyya Movement: Kwankwaso’s movement has gained cult-like status, with supporters wearing red caps to show loyalty. This movement has been instrumental in galvanizing support across diverse socio-political groups.
Electoral Performance: In the 2023 general elections, Kwankwaso led the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to a surprise third-force finish, decisively winning Kano State and securing reasonable membership in the Nigerian Senate and House of Representatives.
Northern Influence: Kwankwaso’s stronghold in Kano State and his influence across northern Nigeria make him a key player in the region’s politics. His ability to mobilize people and shape narratives has earned him respect from both supporters and adversaries.
Potential Alliance with APC: There are speculations about Kwankwaso potentially joining the All Progressives Congress (APC), which could significantly impact the 2027 elections. If he joins, his grassroots support and electoral weight could reinvigorate the APC’s northern base.
Leadership Style: Kwankwaso’s emphasis on education, healthcare, and infrastructure development has earned him a reputation as a people-centric leader. His commitment to public service and his ability to translate promises into tangible results have solidified his influence.
Overall, Kwankwaso’s strength lies in his ability to connect with the masses, build coalitions, and navigate Nigeria’s complex political landscape. His next move will likely have significant implications for the country’s politics.
Rabiu Kwankwaso is indeed a strong political figure in Kano State, Nigeria. Here are some key points that demonstrate his influence:
Kwankwaso’s movement has gained cult-like status, with supporters wearing red caps to show loyalty. This movement has been instrumental in galvanizing support across diverse socio-political groups in Kano and beyond.
In the 2023 general elections, Kwankwaso led the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to a surprise third-force finish, decisively winning Kano State and securing reasonable membership in the Nigerian Senate and House of Representatives.
Kwankwaso’s emphasis on education, healthcare, and infrastructure development has earned him the trust and adoration of the people in Kano State. His ability to mobilize people and shape narratives has made him a key player in the region’s politics.
Kwankwaso’s strategic maneuvers and alliances have consistently positioned him as a key player in national politics. His ability to bridge the gap between diverse groups, along with his deep-rooted connections across the country, reinforces his status as a political juggernaut.
Kwankwaso has vowed to significantly reduce the All Progressives Congress’ (APC) influence in Kano State during the 2027 elections, stating that he will work tirelessly to ensure their votes are reduced to less than 15,000.
Overall, Kwankwaso’s strength in Kano lies in his ability to connect with the masses, build coalitions, and navigate Nigeria’s complex political landscape. His next move will likely have significant implications for the country’s politics.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) wants Rabiu Kwankwaso to join them for several strategic reasons: Electoral Strength: Kwankwaso’s influence in Kano State and the North could significantly boost APC’s chances in the 2027 elections. His Kwankwasiyya Movement has a cult-like following, which could translate to votes.
Northern Appeal: Kwankwaso’s presence in the APC could help the party reconnect with northern voters who feel sidelined by the current administration. This could be particularly important for President Tinubu’s re-election bid.
Counterbalance to Opposition: With growing opposition to Tinubu’s leadership, Kwankwaso’s defection could be a strategic move to strengthen the APC’s position and potentially weaken opposition groups.
Vice Presidential Ticket: There are speculations that Kwankwaso might be considered for the Vice Presidential ticket in 2027, which could attract northern votes and add diversity to the APC’s ticket.
Party Rebirth: Kwankwaso’s joining could signal a rebirth for the APC, injecting fresh energy and grassroots vibrancy into the party.
However, it’s worth noting that Kwankwaso has denied rumors of joining the APC, and the party’s national publicity secretary, Felix Morka, stated that no discussion is currently underway regarding Kwankwaso’s potential defection.
