Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has alleged that his former deputy, Aminu Abdussalam, secretly plotted to remove him from office and take over leadership of the state.
The governor made the claim on Thursday while hosting a group of praise singers, Mawallafan Abba Gida Gida, at the Government House in Kano. His remarks come amid heightened political tension following recent developments within the state’s political structure.
Addressing the gathering, Yusuf described the circumstances surrounding his former deputy’s exit from office as unusual and politically motivated. He insisted that the situation went beyond ordinary disagreements, alleging that it was part of a calculated attempt to force him out of power.
“Today, the deputy governor who came with us on the same ticket is no longer with us. Nobody offended him. In fact, I have not even seen his resignation letter,” the governor said.
Yusuf expressed surprise at Abdussalam’s actions, noting that both leaders were elected on the same platform and had no known disputes that could justify such a development. He questioned the process through which the resignation was handled, stating that he had neither received nor seen any official communication from his former deputy confirming the decision.
The governor suggested that the circumstances surrounding the resignation raised serious concerns about the true motive behind Abdussalam’s departure.
“Whatever made him act that way was an attempt to remove me and take the position, but God did not allow it,” Yusuf stated.
The allegation adds a new dimension to the evolving political crisis in Kano State, where shifting alliances and internal disagreements have continued to shape the political landscape in recent months.
Yusuf also linked the issue to broader tensions within the Kwankwasiyya Movement, a major political force in the state. He expressed disappointment over how the matter was handled within the group, questioning why Abdussalam was not granted the opportunity he allegedly sought, rather than resorting to what he described as a political plot.
The governor used the occasion to respond to critics who have accused him of betrayal, particularly following his recent exit from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). He maintained that his decisions were guided by the need to protect the interests of Kano residents and ensure political stability.
According to Yusuf, the real betrayal lies within factions of the Kwankwasiyya camp, where he claimed that former political opponents are now being elevated above long-standing loyal members.
“Now, the person who was once our biggest enemy… is the one they are now putting forward. Is that not a betrayal?” he asked.
Despite the unfolding controversy, Yusuf reassured residents that governance in Kano State remains unaffected. He said his administration continues to function effectively and remains focused on delivering its mandate to the people.
The governor also addressed the vacancy created by Abdussalam’s exit, revealing that several qualified individuals have already indicated interest in the deputy governor position. He assured that due process would be followed in selecting a replacement.
According to him, the government is committed to appointing a capable and dedicated individual who will support the administration’s goals and contribute meaningfully to the development of the state.
Political observers say the allegations by Abba Kabir Yusuf could further deepen divisions within Kano’s political circles, particularly within the Kwankwasiyya Movement and its affiliates.
As events continue to unfold, attention is expected to focus on how the state government manages the transition in the deputy governor’s office and whether the claims of an alleged plot will trigger further political reactions or clarifications from Aminu Abdussalam.
For now, the situation underscores the ongoing power dynamics shaping Kano politics, with stakeholders closely watching for the next developments in what appears to be an intensifying political contest.
