A northern socio-political group, the Northern Youth Assembly (Majalisar Matasan Arewa), has strongly criticized former Kano State governor and leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, over what it described as his alleged political alignment with Peter Obi and the Obidient Movement ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued and signed by its Secretary General, Hafiz Garba, PhD, the group described the reported alliance as the “ultimate betrayal” of the principles upon which the Kwankwasiyya Movement was built.
The group argued that the Kwankwasiyya Movement emerged as a political platform rooted in northern development, educational advancement, economic empowerment, and the promotion of northern political identity.
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According to the statement, the movement earned widespread support through scholarship programmes, welfare initiatives, and grassroots mobilization efforts that resonated with millions of supporters across northern Nigeria.
The Northern Youth Assembly maintained that the movement’s identity was closely associated with the promotion of northern interests and pride, symbolized by the distinctive red cap that became synonymous with the Kwankwasiyya political brand.
The group alleged that any alliance with political elements perceived to have shown disrespect toward prominent northern historical figures would contradict the values and ideals long associated with the movement.
It specifically referenced the legacies of Ahmadu Bello, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, and Usman dan Fodio, arguing that these figures occupy a central place in the historical and cultural consciousness of northern Nigeria.
According to the group, Kwankwaso owes northern supporters an explanation regarding his political direction and future alliances, particularly in light of the values the movement has publicly championed over the years.
“The movement was built on northern pride, northern dignity, and the advancement of northern interests. Any political partnership that appears inconsistent with those principles raises legitimate concerns among supporters,” the statement said.
The Assembly further argued that many supporters who embraced the Kwankwasiyya Movement because of its emphasis on regional development and identity now feel disappointed by recent political developments.
It maintained that northern voters who supported Kwankwaso through multiple election cycles deserve clarity regarding the future of the movement and its ideological orientation.
The group also contended that political movements derive their strength not only from electoral calculations but also from the principles and values they represent.
According to the statement, the preservation of northern history, cultural heritage, and political identity should remain a priority for leaders seeking support from the region.
The Northern Youth Assembly concluded by describing Kwankwaso as a major political disappointment to those who believed the Kwankwasiyya Movement represented a long-term commitment to northern aspirations and interests.
As of the time of filing this report, neither Kwankwaso nor officials of the Kwankwasiyya Movement had publicly responded to the statement issued by the Northern Youth Assembly.
Political observers note that discussions and speculations regarding possible alliances ahead of the 2027 elections continue to generate intense debate across Nigeria’s political landscape, although formal coalition arrangements involving major political figures are still evolving.
Neither Kwankwaso, Kwankwasiyya Movements or his associates respond to the condemnation as of press time.