Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has vehemently denied allegations that his administration pays N2 billion monthly to former Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, dismissing the claims as politically motivated falsehoods aimed at tarnishing both his and Kwankwaso’s reputations.

In a public statement, Governor Yusuf defended Kwankwaso, who is also his political mentor and leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, describing him as a man of integrity with an outstanding record of service. “Kwankwaso is not a thief,” Yusuf stated. “He has served this country and Kano State in various capacities with honour, and the insinuation that we are paying him N2 billion monthly is completely baseless.”

The allegation had sparked widespread speculation, with critics suggesting that Yusuf’s loyalty to Kwankwaso had created an unchecked financial pipeline benefiting the former governor. However, Yusuf dismissed these claims, asserting that his administration remains committed to transparency and good governance.

The controversy comes amid growing political tension in Kano State. The All Progressives Congress (APC), now in opposition, has accused Governor Yusuf of launching a targeted probe into former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje’s tenure while ignoring alleged irregularities from Kwankwaso’s time in office. The APC has demanded a broader investigation, claiming that over 70% of government properties were sold to associates during Kwankwaso’s administration, and billions were spent on uncompleted projects.

In response to ongoing scrutiny, Yusuf has taken several bold actions, including halting the salaries of more than 10,000 civil servants employed during Ganduje’s administration, pending an audit into their recruitment process. He has maintained that these steps are not politically motivated, but part of his administration’s effort to sanitize the state’s civil service.

Meanwhile, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reportedly invited Kwankwaso for questioning in connection with an alleged N2.5 billion pension fraud. The investigation centers on funds allocated for pensioners’ housing, which were allegedly diverted for building residential estates sold to politically connected individuals, leaving pensioners stranded.

Additionally, a faction of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), under which Kwankwaso contested the 2023 presidential election, has petitioned the EFCC over alleged mismanagement of N2.5 billion in party funds. The petition accuses Kwankwaso and some associates of misappropriating campaign resources meant for the general elections.

Kwankwaso’s supporters have categorically denied all allegations, labeling them as smear tactics orchestrated by political adversaries threatened by the influence of the Kwankwasiyya Movement.

As the political landscape in Kano continues to heat up, Governor Yusuf remains steadfast in his support for Kwankwaso and insists that no public funds are being misappropriated under his watch. “We are here to serve the people of Kano, not to enrich anyone,” he said. “Let the truth prevail, and let those spreading falsehoods be held accountable.”

The situation continues to draw national attention, as both legal and political observers await further developments in the EFCC investigations and the state government’s ongoing reforms.