Kwankwasiyya Movement Faults Proposed US Visa Sanctions Against Kwankwaso
By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa
The Kwankwasiyya Movement and the NNPP have rejected a US House bill seeking sanctions against Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
The “Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026” targets the former governor over alleged religious freedom violations. Supporters claim these charges are fabricated by political rivals using misinformation.
Introduced by Rep. Riley Moore, the bill links Kwankwaso and groups like Miyetti Allah to “mass atrocities.” Kwankwasiyya spokesperson Saifullahi Hassan dismissed these claims as baseless, urging US authorities to investigate independently.
They believe the bill is a response to Kwankwaso’s recent criticism of US characterizations of Nigeria.
The movement highlighted Kwankwaso’s history of interfaith harmony, including his efforts to protect Christians and fight Boko Haram in Kano.
They argue the proposed visa ban and asset freeze are smear tactics aimed at his 2027 political prospects. Supporters insist the Senator remains a champion of national unity and inclusive governance.
Critics of the bill question the timing, labeling it a “political vendetta” orchestrated by those intimidated by Kwankwaso’s influence. They called on the US Congress to disregard the petition, asserting it misrepresents the Senator’s actual political activities.
They maintain that local rivals are simply using international platforms to settle domestic scores.
Regarding the allegations, the spokesperson stated,“The allegations are completely false and represent a desperate attempt by political losers to use international platforms to settle local scores. Senator Kwankwaso has a long history of protecting all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs.”
The group concluded by warning that such sanctions could destabilize Nigerian democracy.
Saifullahi Hassan added, “We urge the US authorities to verify these claims and not allow themselves to be misled by those seeking to destabilize our democracy. Kwankwaso remains a man of integrity and a champion of the masses.”
