Fresh Threat Emerges as Kwankwaso’s Camp Responds to Primate Ayodele

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The Kwankwasiyya Movement has declared that while it remains receptive to criticism, it will not accept what it described as false and defamatory allegations directed at its leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

In a statement issued to ZINGTIE on Wednesday night, the movement’s spokesperson, Habeeb Sale Mohammed, said democratic engagement permits differing opinions but warned that there is a difference between constructive criticism and deliberate misinformation.

“We are open to criticism, but not lies,” the statement said, stressing that political leaders are expected to be subjected to public scrutiny in a democratic environment.

The movement stated that it supports freedom of expression and recognises the right of Nigerians to express their political opinions and preferences.

It added that criticism is welcome when it is factual, constructive and intended to strengthen democratic values and institutions.

However, the group cautioned against the spread of what it described as malicious allegations and false narratives.

“There is a clear distinction between legitimate political criticism and the deliberate publication of falsehoods designed to deceive the public, damage reputations, incite hatred or create divisions,” the statement added.

According to the movement, Senator Kwankwaso has demonstrated tolerance and political maturity throughout his years in public service by handling criticism and opposition with restraint.

“Neither Senator Kwankwaso nor the Kwankwasiyya Movement is afraid of criticism or political opposition,” it said.

The organisation, however, insisted that it would not ignore what it described as calculated attempts to tarnish the image of its leader.

“We will not fold our arms and watch individuals deliberately manufacture lies, spread malicious allegations or engage in character assassination under the guise of political commentary,” the statement said.

The movement warned that individuals responsible for spreading false information should be prepared to defend such claims through legal processes.

“Any individual or group that intentionally disseminates false and malicious allegations against our leader should be prepared to defend such claims through lawful and appropriate channels,” it said.

It further emphasised that freedom of expression carries responsibilities and should not be used to promote misinformation.

“Public discourse must be guided by facts, evidence and honesty. Democracy cannot thrive where falsehood is elevated above truth,” the statement noted.

The movement also maintained that every individual, regardless of social standing or public office, remains subject to the law.

“No individual is above the law. No office is too high. No position is too influential. Whether the source of the falsehood is a politician, a cleric, a traditional ruler, a media personality or any other public figure, we shall not hesitate to pursue every lawful remedy available to protect the integrity, reputation and dignity of our leader and our movement,” it added.

The statement also noted that since emerging as the vice-presidential candidate of the NDC, Kwankwaso has continued to build political alliances across different parts of the country.

It highlighted his working relationship with the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, describing their partnership as one that has inspired many Nigerians seeking credible leadership.

“It is not surprising that the growing acceptance of Senator Kwankwaso and the rapid rise of the NDC have become a source of concern to some political interests,” the statement said.

The movement accused some political actors of resorting to misinformation and personal attacks instead of engaging in issue-based political competition.

“Such malicious and unprovoked attacks will neither distract us nor discourage us from pursuing our vision for a more prosperous and united Nigeria,” it added.

The reaction followed remarks allegedly made by Primate Elijah Ayodele, founder and leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church in Lagos, during a sermon in which he reportedly questioned Kwankwaso’s political relationship with Peter Obi.

Ayodele was reported to have said, “Kwankwaso is a fake to Obi, Kwankwaso will betray you. Kwankwaso has been paid to be vice president to Obi.”

Following the remarks, Kwankwaso, who serves as the vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, reportedly threatened to institute a N10 billion defamation suit against the cleric over the alleged comments.

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