In a speech with strong words and a call for political alertness, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement and presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in the 2023 elections, voiced concerns about what he sees as attempts to politically and economically control northern Nigeria.
Speaking at Skyline University’s convocation in Kano, Kwankwaso’s remarks touched on local leadership issues and economic gaps.
The former Kano governor claimed that interests from Lagos are trying to influence the North’s political and economic affairs. “It is clear there is a strong push from the Lagos side to control this region,” Kwankwaso said. “Lagos does not let us choose our own emir; instead, they come to Kano and install their preferred emir.”
While these statements reflect strong feelings about regional power, they also raise questions about the balance of power across Nigeria’s regions. Kwankwaso focused on taxes and business practices as areas where the North is allegedly sidelined. “Today, we see Lagos people trying to take control of our taxes and businesses, taking money away from Kano to Lagos,” he said, adding that northern businesses often end up moving to Lagos for tax reasons.
Kwankwaso’s remarks highlighted concerns about economic fairness and how different regions are treated in Nigeria’s growing economy. “Even our people who have set up factories and banks in Kano and northern Nigeria often have to move their headquarters to Lagos, meaning taxes go there,” he said.
On the issue of economic inequality, Kwankwaso spoke about the gap between rich and poor, calling it a serious problem that needs fixing. He called on northern lawmakers to protect the interests of their region and not let policies make things worse.
“We see efforts to make the poor even poorer while the rich get richer,” he said, urging National Assembly members to resist being influenced by outside forces. He pointed to past political pressure from 1999 to 2000 as an example, saying lawmakers were bribed to support policies that hurt northern Nigeria’s economy.
Kwankwaso’s speech reflects pride and the desire for regional economic independence, but it also raises concerns about whether such narratives are being used politically. His comments invite discussion on national unity, fair resource distribution, and how Nigeria can achieve a balanced system where every region benefits.
Some critics argue Kwankwaso’s words may create unnecessary regional divides, while his supporters see it as a call for fair economic treatment. As Nigeria navigates complex political and social challenges, his message highlights the need for open discussions and cooperation to address regional and economic differences.
