The Kano People’s Rights Alliance (KPRA), has condemned what it described as the inconsistent and flip-flopping stance of Senator Rufai Hanga over the reported defection of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The group recalled that the senator had previously criticised the Kwankwasiyya movement led by former Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, describing it as a “cult group,” but later praised its influence while attacking Governor Yusuf.
In a statement issued by its Coordinator, Isyaku Lawal Tofa, accusing the senator of lacking consistency, integrity and accountability in his recent public comments.
KPRA said Senator Hanga’s remarks on Governor Yusuf and the Kwankwasiyya political movement reflected what it termed an attempt to rewrite political history for personal gain.
According to the alliance, such contradictory positions raised serious concerns about the senator’s credibility and political integrity, warning that erratic leadership undermined public trust and confused constituents.
The group also drew attention to corruption allegations involving the senator’s family, referencing a petition submitted to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) by Isa Ado Maidoya, a former Chief of Staff and Senior Legislative Aide to Senator Hanga.
He said: “Senator Hanga’s recent remarks about Governor Yusuf and the Kwankwasiyya movement paint a picture of a politician who seeks to rewrite history for personal gain. Just months ago, in a widely circulated video, Senator Hanga scorned the Kwankwasiyya movement led by Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, labeling it a “cult group,” only to later praise its significance while simultaneously attacking Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
“This commentary raises serious questions about his integrity and the authenticity of his political stance. When a leader behaves in such an erratic manner, it not only confuses the constituents but erodes public trust in the political system entirely.
“The KPRA views such actions as a betrayal to the citizens of Kano, who deserve consistent leadership that upholds the principles of transparency and accountability.
“Integrity is a foundational tenet of effective governance. Politicians are entrusted with the sacred duty of representing the interests of their constituents. When representatives like Senator Hanga make contradictory statements and flip-flop on essential issues, they undermine the democratic principles they claim to uphold.
“Citizens of Kano need to ask: How can we trust Senator Hanga when he cannot seem to adhere to a consistent position? This uncertainty creates a volatile political climate that can lead to disillusionment among the electorate.
“Moreover, with issues like corruption, accusations of misappropriation, and ethical dilemmas looming large, it is imperative for Senator Hanga to reevaluate his approach to governance.
KPRA stated that the petition accused the senator’s son, Muhammad Samir Hanga, of allegedly diverting and misappropriating a federal government project valued at over N250 million.
The alliance said the allegations, though yet to be determined by authorities, further underscored the need for the senator to address questions surrounding personal and public accountability.
He added, “Senator Hanga has previously criticized the Kwankwasiyya movement, attributing its strength to merely a cult-like following and attempting to diminish its political legitimacy. However, in light of Governor Yusuf’s defection to the APC, Hanga’s narrative has inexplicably shifted.
“This behavior not only reflects a lack of principled stands but also exemplifies opportunism at its finest. In stark contrast, Hanga now praises the very entity Kwankwasiyya he once disparaged.
“This dual nature not only casts a shadow on his credibility but also confuses the narrative of political loyalties for the average voter. Such behavior raises eyebrows about his true motivations in the political sphere, are they aligned with advancing society, or rather self-serving?”
The alliance urged Senator Hanga to take responsibility for his past statements, maintain principled political positions and address the allegations involving his family openly and transparently.
KPRA also called on Kano residents to remain vigilant and actively engage their representatives, demanding accountability and ethical conduct in public office.
“It is essential to point out that the allegations against Muhammad Samir Hanga are not mere bureaucratic oversights; they represent a serious deviation from ethical norms expected in leadership positions.
“The diversion of public projects can have detrimental effects on community development, impeding progress in areas that are desperately in need of attention. All stakeholders must ensure that these claims are thoroughly investigated so that accountability becomes a norm rather than an exception.
“Political flip-flopping is detrimental to effective governance and public trust. It can foster a lack of loyalty and opposition within political parties. Senator Hanga’s recent behavior serves as a cautionary tale for what can happen when politicians prioritize self-interest over their constituents’ needs.
“The unpredictability of Hanga’s statements and actions could lead to broader instability within his party and among the political class. If leaders cannot maintain a consistent message, it becomes near impossible for the electorate to feel secure in their votes or trust the future of the political system in Kano,“ he said.
The Kano People’s Rights Alliance calls for a return to principled and ethical political discourse in Kano State. Our leaders must rise above petty squabbles and personal ambitions to serve the interests of the people effectively.
