Several Kwankwasiyya-aligned youth groups in Kano State have expressed their willingness to politically support Governor Abba Yusuf, on the condition that his administration addresses what they describe as marginalisation and exclusion from governance.
During a forum held in Kano on Saturday, amid ongoing political realignments in the state, the Kwankwasiyya youths clarified that their concerns are not directed at Governor Yusuf personally, but at the perceived lack of inclusion of young people in government programs and decision-making processes.
Speaking on behalf of the groups, Aminu Abdullahi, popularly known as Alhaji Warkal, noted that many youths who played pivotal roles in the success of the Kwankwasiyya Movement and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) during the 2023 general elections feel neglected and sidelined in the post-election period.
According to him, “Thousands of young people sacrificed their time, energy and resources to ensure the success of the movement and the party. Unfortunately, after the election, they were left out of consultations, appointments and empowerment opportunities.”
He further stated that the perceived exclusion had fuelled frustration among supporters, stressing that neglecting youth participation could have wider social implications.
Abdullahi said one cannot expect young people to remain loyal when they are not carried along, describing genuine youth engagement as critical to reducing crime, restiveness and social tension.
He dismissed insinuations that political actors were coercing or inducing the youths to take sides, pointing out that their stance was driven purely by interests and expectations.
He explained that politics is about interest, noting that if the government listens to the youths, empowers them and gives them a sense of belonging, they will naturally support the administration.
He disclosed that deliberations among various youth groups showed a willingness to align with the governor if their concerns were addressed.
According to him, representatives of no fewer than 32 Kwankwasiyya youth groups participated in the engagement, with about 400 youths in attendance, during which empowerment support valued at N20 million was distributed.
