The Deputy Governor of Kano State, Aminu Gwarzo, has appealed to the United States Congress to remove the name of former Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso from a proposed bill targeting individuals over alleged religious persecution.
In a statement issued on Thursday by his Press Secretary, Ibrahim Shuaibu, Gwarzo described the allegations against the ex-governor as “unfounded, misleading, and contrary to his long record of public service.”
The proposed legislation, known as the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026, sponsored by US Representatives Riley Moore and Chris Smith, reportedly seeks sanctions against Fulani militia groups and lists Kwankwaso among those accused of religious persecution.
Gwarzo insisted that the former presidential candidate’s inclusion was unjustified, highlighting his decades-long service in key positions such as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, two-term Governor of Kano State, Minister of Defence, and Senator.
The statement emphasized that Kwankwaso fostered strong ties with Christian leaders and minority communities, promoting peaceful coexistence during his tenure.
His 2023 presidential ticket, run alongside Catholic Bishop Isaac Idahosa, was cited as further proof of his commitment to religious inclusion and national unity.
The deputy governor urged US lawmakers to reject the recommendation and remove Kwankwaso’s name, suggesting that personal vendettas or political rivalry may have influenced the proposal.
“Kwankwaso remains a nationalist, democrat, and statesman whose public service has been guided by justice, unity, and inclusive governance,” the statement concluded.
