Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has accused Lagos of attempting to “colonize” northern Nigeria through control over emirate leadership, taxation, and economic dominance.

Speaking during the convocation ceremony at Skyline University, Kano, Kwankwaso claimed that Lagos influences decisions in Kano, particularly in selecting its emir.   “Today, we can see clearly efforts from the Lagos axis to colonize this part of the country, ”Kwankwaso alleged. “Lagos wouldn’t allow us to choose an emir; instead, it intervenes directly in Kano’s affairs to impose its will.”

The former Kano State governor criticized tax policies, stating that resources generated in the North are being diverted to Lagos. “Lagos is working hard to impose taxes and take revenue from Kano and other northern regions. Even our telephones registered in Kano are taxed in Lagos. Factories and banks established here are being forced to move their headquarters to Lagos, effectively shifting taxes there,” he said.

Kwankwaso also lamented the worsening economic disparity between the North and other regions, citing poverty, insecurity, and disease as significant challenges in northern Nigeria.  “We are seeing efforts to make the poor poorer and the rich richer. This is a dangerous trend for our country,” he warned.

Calling for vigilance, Kwankwaso urged northern lawmakers to protect the region’s interests and resist policies that might disadvantage the North.  “Our National Assembly members must remain vigilant. They should not support laws or decisions that cheat the people of northern Nigeria, particularly in Kano,” he added, recalling incidents from 1999-2000 where legislators were allegedly bribed to support offshore ventures that negatively impacted the economy.

Kwankwaso’s remarks underline ongoing concerns over regional economic and political balance in Nigeria, sparking debate on federal control versus regional autonomy.