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By Oscar Okhifo
Hundreds of youths flooded Singa Market in Kano on Thursday as the national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, visited the area, turning what was meant to be a sympathy trip into a major street show of support.
The visit was prompted by a recent fire outbreak that destroyed goods and stalls at the market, with traders and residents viewing Kwankwaso’s presence as a gesture of sympathy and support for those affected by the incident.
As his convoy made its way through Bello Road, large numbers of supporters poured onto the streets, chanting “Kano sai Kwankwaso!” and surrounding the motorcade in a show of loyalty to the NNPP leader.
The crowd also repeatedly chorused “Madugu, Madugu!”, a nickname associated with Kwankwaso, adding to the fervent display of support.
On arrival, Kwankwaso stepped out of his SUV and moved toward the crowd, acknowledging the cheers with visible excitement. Smiling broadly and energized by the reception, he raised his hand in a victory sign as youths surged forward to catch a glimpse of him.
The spontaneous gathering temporarily disrupted commercial activities in parts of Kano Central, with vehicular movement along major roads slowed as the crowd blocked streets in their bid to see the former governor.
Dressed in his signature white flowing traditional attire and red cap, Kwankwaso’s appearance reinforced his image as a politician with strong street appeal and connection to the grassroots.
Some supporters openly expressed emotional attachment to the former governor. A middle-aged man who identified himself as Yunusa Kano shouted: “You see him, you see him. He owns Kano. He owns us. We are his children. Where he goes, we go!”
Meanwhile, the NNPP has dismissed speculations linking Kwankwaso to talks with President Bola Tinubu or a possible defection from the party.
The party’s spokesman, Ladipo Johnson, described the claims as untrue, insisting that the former presidential candidate was not contemplating leaving the NNPP. He said: “ Our national leader and former presidential candidate is not contemplating any defection. Take it from me, there no takes to that effect. The last time Kwankwaso visited President Tinubu was in 2024, when important matters on security and other state crafts were discussed. Nigerians should disregard all information that is not from the party’s office.”
Johnson also dismissed insinuations that the NNPP was factionalized or shaken because of the recent defection of Kano state Governor.
“The party is not factionalised. The party is as strong as ever. The governor’s exit has zero effect on the party. Just wait and see.” He says d confidently.
Despite the denial, political rumours continue to swirl around the former governor, with reports linking him not only to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) but also to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), fueling speculation about his next political move.
The political intrigue deepened further after former Kano State governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, recently stated: “I am open to reconciliation with my former boss.” Observers say the unfolding developments suggest that Kano’s political landscape may once again witness intense realignments in the coming months.