Governor suspends aide over comments on Kwankwaso’s alleged defection

Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has suspended Ibrahim Rabi’u, a senior political aide, following an unauthorized and inflammatory statement he made regarding Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s alleged defection.

Rabi’u, who serves as Senior Special Adviser in the Ministry of Transportation, is now facing disciplinary action, including an official query, over his controversial remarks speculating on Kwankwaso’s political status—a claim the state government has publicly rejected.

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The suspension was announced in a press release signed by Sanusi Dawakin-Tofa, Director General of Media and Publicity, and issued through Alhaji Umar Ibrahim, Secretary to the State Government, on Saturday.

The government strongly distanced itself from Rabi’u’s statement, emphasizing that the comments were solely his and did not reflect the official position of the Kano State Government.

The statement reiterated that all political appointees must obtain prior clearance before making public statements on sensitive political matters or official government positions.

“This serves as a firm warning to all political appointees to avoid unauthorized comments, especially on issues outside their remit,” the release said.

It further clarified that Ibrahim Garba Wayya, Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, is the only authorized spokesperson for the state government, while Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa is the sole spokesperson for the Governor.

The suspension comes amid heightened sensitivity in Kano’s political circles, as speculation over defections among key political figures continues.

Governor Yusuf’s action is seen as a move to maintain political discipline and stability, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to integrity, accuracy, and collective responsibility in public communication.

The suspended aide is expected to respond to the official query and may face further disciplinary measures after investigation.

The Star