Kano Deputy Gov Urges US to Drop Kwankwaso from Sanctions Bill

The Deputy Governor of Kano State, Aminu Gwarzo, has called on the United States Congress to remove former Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso’s name from the proposed Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026.

The bill, sponsored by US Representatives Riley Moore and Chris Smith, reportedly seeks sanctions against Fulani militias and lists Kwankwaso among individuals accused of religious persecution.

In a statement on Thursday, Gwarzo’s Press Secretary, Ibrahim Shuaibu, described the allegations against Kwankwaso as “unfounded, misleading, and inconsistent with the verifiable public record of his life and service.”

Kwankwaso, who has served as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, two-term Governor of Kano State, Minister of Defence, and Senator, has never been indicted, prosecuted, or credibly accused of religious persecution, extremism, or human rights violations, the statement said.

Gwarzo urged those behind the allegations to “identify the real perpetrators” instead of defaming a politician who has consistently opposed violence, extremism, and terrorism.

The statement highlighted Kwankwaso’s constructive engagement with Christian leaders and minority communities during his tenure, as well as his 2023 presidential ticket with Catholic cleric Bishop Isaac Idahosa, as evidence of his commitment to religious inclusion and national balance.

He called on US lawmakers to “reject this recommendation outright” and suggested that Kwankwaso’s inclusion may have been influenced by personal or political vendettas.

“Kwankwaso remains a nationalist, a democrat and a statesman whose public service has been anchored on justice, unity and inclusive governance,” the statement concluded.

Titilope Adako

Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.

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