THE Kwankwasiyya Movement has strongly opposed a proposal by five United States lawmakers to blacklist its leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, over alleged severe violations of religious freedom in Nigeria.
The development follows the introduction of the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act 2026 (HR 7457) before the US Congress yesterday.
If enacted, the bill would require the US Departments of State and Treasury to impose visa restrictions and asset freezes on Kwankwaso and organisations such as the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association (MACBAN), over their alleged involvement in the systemic persecution of Christians.
Reacting today, the movement described the inclusion of the former Kano State governor in the proposed legislation as “baseless” and “politically driven,” calling for his immediate removal from the bill.
Spokesperson Habibu Sale Mohammed stated that there is no verifiable public record supporting the allegations against Kwankwaso.
He maintained that the claims contradict the former governor’s history of public service.
The group also addressed remarks reportedly made by US Representative Riley Moore, one of the bill’s sponsors, who linked Kwankwaso to religious extremism over the implementation of Sharia law during his tenure as governor.
The movement argued that the adoption of Sharia-based legal systems in parts of Northern Nigeria was a constitutional process and not exclusive to Kano State or initiated by a single individual.
According to the statement, similar legal frameworks exist in several northern states and remain subject to constitutional oversight and appellate review.
Singling out Kwankwaso under such circumstances, the group argued, raises concerns about the consistency and evidentiary standards behind the recommendation.
The movement further noted that Kwankwaso — a former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, two-term Governor of Kano State, former Minister of Defence, and Senator — has never been indicted or credibly accused of religious persecution, extremism, or human rights abuses.
It also referenced Nigeria’s diplomatic ties with the United States and other nations operating diverse legal systems, stressing that constitutional sovereignty and contextual realities should guide international engagements.
The statement pointed out that the US maintains relations with countries that incorporate Islamic jurisprudence in their legal structures.
Defending Kwankwaso’s leadership record, the group said he took firm steps while in office to address extremist threats and safeguard lives and property across religious lines.
It also cited his 2023 presidential ticket alongside Bishop Isaac Idahosa as an example of his commitment to religious inclusion and national balance.
Describing the development as troubling, the movement questioned why an opposition political figure would be singled out without transparent and verifiable findings.
It urged the US Congress to reject the recommendation and remove Kwankwaso’s name from the bill, alleging that the move may have been influenced by political adversaries.
Reaffirming its support, the Kwankwasiyya Movement characterised Kwankwaso as a nationalist and statesman committed to justice, unity, and inclusive governance, expressing confidence that fairness and due process would prevail.
The bill was introduced by Representatives Chris Smith, Riley Moore, Brian Mast, Mario Diaz-Balart, and Bill Huizenga.
Information published on the US Congress website alleges that Kwankwaso is among individuals contributing to persistent religious persecution in Nigeria.