Kano deputy governor asks US lawmakers to remove Kwankwaso from sanctions bill
Aminu Gwarzo, Deputy Governor of Kano State, has appealed to the US Congress to exclude Rabiu Kwankwaso from a proposed sanctions bill. The bill, aimed at addressing alleged religious persecution, currently lists the former governor among those cited. Gwarzo described the allegations against Kwankwaso as baseless and inconsistent with his public record. He emphasized Kwankwaso's history of promoting peaceful coexistence and religious inclusion.
Key takeaways
- Aminu Gwarzo urged US lawmakers to remove Rabiu Kwankwaso from the proposed Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026.
- The bill, sponsored by US Representatives Riley Moore and Chris Smith, seeks sanctions over alleged religious persecution and includes Kwankwaso among those cited.
- Gwarzo stated that Kwankwaso has never been indicted, prosecuted, or credibly accused of religious persecution or extremism.
- The deputy governor highlighted Kwankwaso's engagement with Christian leaders and his 2023 presidential ticket with Bishop Isaac Idahosa as evidence of his commitment to inclusion.
- He suggested that Kwankwaso's inclusion in the bill may be due to political rivalry or personal vendettas.
