Kwankwaso Declares Himself ‘Priceless,’ Says Money Does Not Shape His Politics

|By Chinwendu Nwani

Former Kano State Governor and leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has declared that he remains the only “priceless” politician in Kano State, insisting that financial inducements have never influenced his political choices.

Kwankwaso, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, made the assertion on Tuesday while addressing supporters at his residence in Kano.

He challenged the widespread belief that all politicians can be bought, stressing that his political decisions are rooted in principle rather than personal gain. According to him, if wealth were his primary motivation, he would already know where to pitch his political tent.

The former governor further stated that no individual or group has ever attempted to buy his loyalty, maintaining that his long-standing political stance reflects conviction, not convenience.

Extending the claim to his followers, Kwankwaso described members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement as equally “priceless,” arguing that they resist monetary influence, particularly during elections.

His comments come against the backdrop of rising political tension in Kano State. Recently, Kwankwaso openly criticised the reported plan by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing it as a painful development.

“The most painful part is they are taking the governorship seat and handing it over to Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, whom we rescued Kano from,” Kwankwaso had said.

Despite the sharp criticism, the former governor urged his supporters to remain calm and patient, reminding them that political power is temporary. He noted that circumstances can change at any moment, adding that God ultimately controls political outcomes.

Kwankwaso’s remarks have intensified speculation about a widening rift between him and Governor Yusuf, his long-time ally, amid reports that the governor may be considering a move to the APC.