Northern Youths Merger Group Faults Kwankwaso’s Criticism of Tinubu on Security
By Suleiman Ahmad | Kano
The Northern Youths Merger Group (NYMG), a pro–All Progressives Congress (APC) coalition, has distanced itself from recent comments by former Kano State Governor and leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, criticizing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s handling of Nigeria’s security challenges.
In a statement issued in Kano and signed by the group’s National Coordinator, Hon. Musa Mujahid Zaitawa, the group described Kwankwaso’s remarks as “baseless” and “unhelpful,” accusing him of what it termed a pattern of opposing successive governments without offering constructive alternatives.
According to the statement, the group questioned the credibility of the former governor’s position, noting that Kwankwaso has previously served as Minister of Defence, Governor, and Senator, and should therefore understand the complexities involved in managing national security.
“The President is actively engaging security agencies and implementing reforms aimed at restoring peace across the country. Statements that undermine these efforts do not contribute to national stability,” Zaitawa said.
The group further alleged that Kwankwaso has consistently criticized administrations in the past, citing his opposition to the government of former President Goodluck Jonathan and his current stance against the APC-led federal government.
NYMG also claimed that support for the Kwankwasiyya movement has waned, pointing to the exit of some of Kwankwaso’s former allies, including serving lawmakers and other political figures.
In a stronger allegation, the group accused Kwankwaso of attempting to politicize the security situation in Kano State ahead of the 2027 general elections. It alleged that he was seeking to implicate former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin in order to portray the Tinubu administration as ineffective on security matters.
The group warned against statements that could inflame tensions or incite unrest among young people, urging political leaders to exercise restraint and responsibility in their public engagements.
NYMG, however, commended President Tinubu for steps taken so far to address insecurity, including recent changes in the nation’s defence leadership and initiatives aimed at supporting farmers and improving livelihoods across northern Nigeria.
The group concluded by calling on political actors to prioritize national unity and collective security over partisan interests, stressing that the fight against insecurity requires cooperation from all stakeholders.
