Gov Yusuf Plans Major Cabinet Shake-Up Over Alleged Loyalty To Kwankwaso
By Our Reporter
Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf is reportedly preparing for a major cabinet reshuffle after his return from Saudi Arabia, amid allegations that some top government officials remain loyal to former governor and leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
Sources close to the Kano Government House told this newspaper that the governor is expected to dissolve and reconstitute parts of his cabinet immediately after returning from the holy land.
Governor Yusuf is currently in Saudi Arabia and was recently seen addressing Kano pilgrims, assuring them of his administration’s continued support and commitment to their welfare.
According to sources, the planned shake-up could affect several commissioners, special advisers, managing directors of government agencies and other political appointees accused of placing their loyalty to the Kwankwasiyya movement above that of the governor’s administration.
A source familiar with the development said some special advisers are among those likely to lose their positions as part of efforts to strengthen loyalty within government.
The source also claimed that many of the affected advisers are waiting to receive outstanding benefits, including land allocations and other entitlements, before leaving office.
Sources further alleged that at least seven commissioners recently held a private meeting with allies of Senator Kwankwaso and informed them of their intention to return fully to the Kwankwasiyya fold after receiving benefits from the current administration.
It was also gathered that some commissioners and advisers have started removing personal belongings from their offices amid growing speculation that they could soon be relieved of their appointments.
Sources said the planned reorganisation may also create room for the appointment of some members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) who recently aligned with the governor’s political camp. The move, according to insiders, is part of efforts to accommodate key APC stakeholders and strengthen emerging political alliances ahead of 2027 political contests.
According to sources, lists containing the names of officials believed to be loyal to Kwankwaso have already been compiled and are awaiting final approval before any announcement is made.
“The governor wants to work with people whose loyalty is fully with his administration,” a source said.
Political observers believe the reported move may be connected to comments made by Governor Yusuf during the recent Hawan Nasarawa Sallah homage, where he warned some political appointees against what he described as “double-faced” behaviour.
The governor reportedly told such officials to either align themselves fully with his administration or be prepared to leave.
Neither the governor’s office nor any of the commissioners, advisers or agency heads mentioned in the allegations had commented on the claims as of the time of filing this report.
If carried out, the reshuffle would be one of the biggest political changes since Yusuf assumed office and could significantly alter the political landscape within Kano’s ruling camp.
No official statement had been issued on the reported cabinet reshuffle as at press time.