Former Kano State Governor and Leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has responded to the assault threats made by former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

Ganduje made the threats after his visit to President Bola Tinubu at the Aso Rock Villa on Friday evening. In his address to State House correspondents, Ganduje stated that he would have physically confronted Kwankwaso if they had met at Aso Rock in Abuja.

Ganduje’s statement comes in the wake of the recent demolition of numerous buildings in Kano State by the Abba Yusuf-led administration. Ganduje accused his predecessor, Kwankwaso, of orchestrating these demolitions. However, Kwankwaso has dismissed Ganduje’s assault threats, stating that Ganduje would never dare to carry out such an act. He further described Ganduje as his political subordinate or “boy.”

Speaking to BBC Hausa, Kwankwaso said;

“I heard that he [Ganduje] said he would’ve slapped me, but I’m here. He was just confused. These are all my boys politically. They can’t even look at me straight in the face if we meet.” 

In addition, Kwankwaso revealed his intention to collaborate with President Bola Tinubu and mentioned that Tinubu had extended an appointment offer to him. However, they have not yet reached a final agreement on the matter. 

“We have discussed collaboration, however, a definitive decision is pending. After the inauguration of the National Assembly, we will determine the best course of action,” he said.

Furthermore, Kwankwaso emphasized that he has no intentions of leaving the NNPP, affirming his commitment to the party.

Regarding the demolition in Kano, Kwankwaso mentioned that he had briefed the president on the matter, and they had come to a mutual understanding.

“Tinubu initiated the conversation, after which I provided a comprehensive explanation, to which Tinubu expressed surprise upon discovering that the information relayed to him was false,” he said.

“During our discussion, he (Tinubu) seemed astonished and was speechless at the information conveyed to him.

“We unequivocally prohibit any governor, irrespective of who they are, including Ganduje or Abba, from constructing on sites designated for mosques, schools, or other similar purposes. We will inform them that it is unacceptable,” Kwankwaso said.