The national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and former Governor of Kano State, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, on Thursday departed Nigeria shortly after staging what many observers described as a public demonstration of his political strength in Kano.
Kwankwaso’s appearance on major streets in Kano attracted large crowds of supporters, who trooped out in their numbers to welcome and show solidarity with the influential political figure. The outing was widely interpreted as a reaffirmation of his enduring popularity and relevance in Kano’s political landscape.
However, shortly after the public appearance, the former governor was reportedly seen leaving the country, a development that sparked widespread speculation across political and social circles, though details of his destination were not immediately disclosed, and the suspense further fuelled curiosity particularly amid rumours surrounding his health status.
The speculation gained momentum following a Facebook post by a former Chairman of Kano Municipal Council, Alhaji Faizu Alfindiki, who suggested that the senator travelled abroad for medical attention.
However, in response, Kwankwaso’s media team swiftly moved to dispel the rumours.
The spokesperson of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, Capt. Mansur Kurugu, clarified that the trip was purely for personal reasons and not related to health concerns.
“Good afternoon and thank you for reaching out. Sen. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso departed Nigeria for a personal reason. It is not for medical tourism or any health-related matter,” Kurugu said in an official response.
Meanwhile, supporters and political observers in Kano have expressed mixed reactions to the development. While some described the trip as a routine personal engagement, others speculated on its possible implications for Kano’s political dynamics, particularly the evolving relationship between Kwankwaso and his political protégé, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
