Abba Kabir Yusuf has openly criticised his former political ally and mentor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, warning that his continued silence should not be mistaken for weakness.

The Kano governor made the remarks on Monday during the official affirmation of Sulaiman Kawu Sumaila as the All Progressives Congress senatorial candidate for Kano South in Rano.

The comments marked Yusuf’s first direct public response to Kwankwaso since both politicians fell out earlier this year.

“For us, Kano peace is our priority, but if we are pushed to the wall, we will open our mouths and talk. Silence is not a sign of fear,” Yusuf said.

“To even keep quiet is an act of worship, not because we are afraid, not because we are kids. How could a 69-year-old call a 63-year-old a kid? It is just a personal respect that you are slightly elder than me.”

The governor further warned that he could begin revealing sensitive details if the attacks against him continued.

“However, if an old man does not respect himself and keeps quiet, the younger one will have what to say. So, we are pleading with them in the name of Almighty and His Messenger to keep their mouths shut. Else, you will hear a lot of revelations,” he added.

Yusuf’s reaction followed recent comments by Kwankwaso during an interview with Trust TV, where the former Kano governor described Yusuf’s exit from the Kwankwasiyya Movement as a major political mistake.

Kwankwaso, now a chieftain of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, also reportedly boasted about the role the movement played in elevating Yusuf, who once served as his personal assistant, to the position of governor.

The exchange highlights the deepening political rift between the two influential Kano politicians ahead of the 2027 general elections.