Chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Buba Galadima, has stated that allegations linking former Governor of Kano State, Rabiu Kwankwaso, to terrorism are politically motivated.
Naijaonpoint reports that Kwankwaso has been targeted for sanctions under legislation introduced by the United States Congress over his alleged role in promulgating Sharia law in Kano State.
However, Galadima, during an interview on ARISE Television, described the allegation as baseless, stressing that the claims are aimed at neutralising Kwankwaso’s potential presidential or vice-presidential ambition in 2027.
While defending Kwankwaso’s political record, Galadima noted that during his tenure as governor from 2000 to 2003, the former NNPP presidential candidate supported ex-President, Olusegun Obasanjo, despite the political cost to the latter’s re-election.
He further accused several media outlets and certain politicians of being complicit in circulating unverified reports to damage Kwankwaso’s image.
Galadima said, “The insinuation that Kwankwaso was a financier of terrorism is baseless. It is an attempt to smear a peaceful Nigerian ahead of the 2027 elections.”
Galadima further clarified that Kwankwaso did not implement Sharia law in accordance with its strict dictates, a factor that eventually paved the way for Ibrahim Shekarau to become governor.
He also highlighted Kwankwaso’s record of protecting minority groups in Kano State.