Leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and former Governor of Kano State, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has dismissed claims that he is interfering in the running of the Kano State government or handling contracts on behalf of the administration.

Kwankwaso, who spoke during an interview with BBC Hausa, described such allegations as baseless, saying there was no need for him to respond to detractors.

“Many people have conspired and said unpleasant things, claiming I’m the one steering the government, that I handle contracts and all sorts of things,” he said.

“There is no need for me to respond. With time and patience, people will see for themselves who is truly in charge.”

He noted that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf was carefully selected and remains fully in control of his administration.

“We did everything with the fear of God. Since the 2019 elections, we searched carefully and found that he was the best candidate. Allah has now blessed him with leadership. He is working, and we have given him the chance to do what is necessary,” Kwankwaso stated.

The NNPP leader said his role is simply to guide and support when necessary.

“Our position is simple: if he seeks our counsel or advice, we will gladly offer it. And if we notice anything wrong or harmful, we will call his attention to it,” he added.

Kwankwaso also dismissed reports of a crisis within the NNPP, describing those spreading such rumours as “not real politicians.”

“There is no crisis in our party, the NNPP. They have taken us to court over a thousand times but have not succeeded. Up till now, they are still using the old logo. So, it is like members of the APC suddenly claiming to belong to ACN or CPC. How can that be? Check the INEC portal and see for yourself who is recognized. They are not real politicians,” he said.

On the National Assembly’s proposal to amend the Electoral Act to allow presidential and governorship elections to hold six months before the expiration of incumbents’ tenure, Kwankwaso said he is ready for elections to hold anytime.

“As for me, I have no issue. If they are ready, let them come out tomorrow, we will come out too. I have no problem with that. Whether it is November or February, let the election hold anytime. All we need is some notice so we can inform and mobilize our people,” he said.

Kwankwaso noted that despite being a relatively new party during the last general election, the NNPP made a strong impact across the country and remains confident about its political strength.

“The truth is, the youths have become more aware,” he added. “Those who think they will defeat us or vote us out will be surprised.” (Daily Trust)