You had chance to save north but refused – Nafi’u Bala slams Kwankwaso
ADC Faction Leader Criticizes Kwankwaso Over Northern Interests
KANO, Nigeria — Nafi’u Bala Gombe, a prominent leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has publicly criticized Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, accusing him of failing to uphold the interests of Northern Nigeria during his tenure in public office.
In an interview with Premier Radio in Kano, Gombe responded to recent attempts by Kwankwaso to discuss the future of the North, stating that such engagements are of little value due to Kwankwaso’s past actions.
“Kwankwaso called me, suggesting solutions for the North,” Gombe said. “I told him that any conversation with individuals like him is worthless.”
Gombe contended that Kwankwaso’s previous decisions have contributed to the difficulties facing the region, accusing him of squandering opportunities to bring about positive change.
“You were the leaders the North relied upon,” Gombe asserted. “You had the chance to make a difference, but you did not. It was you who harmed the North.”
Gombe further alleged that Kwankwaso’s performance during the last general election weakened the political standing of the region. He recalled urging Kwankwaso to withdraw his candidacy in favor of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, but his requests were disregarded.
“Even during the last election, we pleaded with Kwankwaso to step down, but he refused and contested under a minor party,” he said.
According to Gombe, Kwankwaso was aware he was unlikely to win, yet proceeded with his campaign, a move he claims fragmented Northern votes and ultimately facilitated electoral success for Bola Tinubu.
“He knew he was not going to win. The party he represented is known only in Kano, but he went ahead to split Northern votes,” Gombe stated.
He emphasized that the memories of these events linger among the populace, warning that many in the region have not overlooked Kwankwaso’s actions.
“We have not forgotten. The people of Nigeria, especially in the North, remember what you did,” Gombe said.
He concluded by asserting that Kwankwaso lacks the moral authority to address issues affecting the North, accusing him of prioritizing personal interests over those of the region.
“Individuals like Kwankwaso do not have the courage to speak with me about the North,” Gombe said. “Everyone knows they prioritize their own interests, not those of the North. When their interests are threatened, they invoke regional concerns.”
