The Kwankwasiyya Movement has dismissed reports linking its leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, to alleged religious freedom violations referenced in a proposed United States congressional bill, describing the claims as unfounded and misleading.
In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Habibu Sale Mohammed, the movement expressed “grave concern” over the reported mention of Kwankwaso in the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act 2026 (HR 7457), which is currently before the US Congress.
The group insisted that Kwankwaso’s more than three decades of public service — spanning roles as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, two-term Governor of Kano State, Minister of Defence, Senator, and presidential candidate — have never resulted in indictment, prosecution, or credible accusations of religious persecution or extremism.
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According to the statement, the adoption of Sharia-based legal frameworks in parts of northern Nigeria followed constitutional processes and legislative actions across multiple states, and was not the initiative of any single political figure. It argued that singling out Kwankwaso over such arrangements raises questions about the evidentiary basis and consistency of the recommendation.
The movement further noted that Nigeria’s legal pluralism operates within constitutional safeguards and judicial oversight, stressing that international engagement should reflect contextual understanding and respect for sovereignty. It also pointed to the United States’ diplomatic relations with countries operating similar jurisprudential systems, arguing that Nigeria should not be treated differently without clear evidence of wrongdoing.
Defending Kwankwaso’s record, the statement maintained that he had taken measures during his tenure as Kano governor to counter extremism and protect communities across religious divides, including engagement with Christian leaders and minority groups. It also referenced his 2023 presidential ticket, which featured Bishop Isaac Idahosa as running mate, as evidence of his commitment to religious inclusion.
The movement urged the US Congress to reject what it described as a recommendation to include Kwankwaso in the bill and remove his name entirely. It alleged that the move may have been influenced by political rivals or individuals pursuing personal grievances, warning that allegations of such gravity must be grounded in demonstrable facts rather than assumptions.
Reaffirming confidence in what it termed fairness and due diligence, the Kwankwasiyya Movement described Kwankwaso as a nationalist and statesman committed to unity and inclusive governance.
