Buba Galadima has alleged that political opponents are behind efforts to link Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former Kano State governor, to terrorism-related sanctions proposed by US lawmakers.
Galadima, a chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and longtime ally of Kwankwaso, spoke on Thursday during an interview on The Morning Show on Arise Television.
He dismissed suggestions that the NNPP leader could face asset freezes or visa bans in the United States, describing the development as politically motivated.
Background: US Bill Targets Kwankwaso
On February 10, Republican lawmakers in the US House of Representatives introduced the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026 (HR 7457).
The bill proposes targeted sanctions, including visa bans and asset freezes, against individuals accused of severe religious freedom violations in Nigeria.
The lawmakers named Kwankwaso, Miyetti Allah groups, and Fulani ethnic militias as potential targets. They cited allegations linked to the implementation of Sharia criminal law in Kano during Kwankwaso’s tenure as governor.
However, the bill remains at the introduction stage and has not become law.
‘He Is a Victim of Sharia’
Reacting to the proposal, Galadima insisted that Kwankwaso should not be portrayed as a sponsor of religious extremism.
Instead, he described him as “a victim of Sharia.”
He argued that attempts to connect the former Kano governor to terrorism financing or extremist policies distort historical realities.
According to him, Kwankwaso neither introduced Sharia in Nigeria nor used it to persecute religious groups.
Blames Political Opponents
Furthermore, Galadima accused unnamed political rivals of fueling the narrative abroad.
He said opponents are working to damage Kwankwaso’s international reputation ahead of future political contests.
“This is the handiwork of political enemies,” he said during the interview.
He maintained that the allegations lack substance and warned against using foreign platforms to settle domestic political scores.
Defending Kwankwaso’s Record
Galadima also defended Kwankwaso’s record as governor of Kano State.
He said the former presidential candidate focused on governance, infrastructure, and education rather than sectarian politics.
Therefore, he argued that linking him to terrorism or extremist financing does not reflect his years in public office.
