Some Kwankwasiyya-affiliated youth groups in Kano State have declared their readiness to move politically with Governor Abba Yusuf, provided his administration addresses what they described as their marginalisation and exclusion from governance.
The youths made their position known on Saturday during a youth engagement forum held in Kano, amid ongoing political realignment in the state.
Speaking on behalf of the groups, Aminu Abdullahi, popularly known as Alhaji Warkal, said the youths were not opposed to Gov. Yusuf as a person, but were dissatisfied with what they termed the lack of inclusion of young people in government programmes and decision-making.
He said many youths who played key roles in the success of the Kwankwasiyya movement and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) during the 2023 general elections felt abandoned after the victory.
“Thousands of young people sacrificed their time, energy and resources to ensure the success of the movement and the party.
“Unfortunately, after the election, they were left out of consultations, appointments and empowerment opportunities,” Abdullahi said.
He noted that the perceived exclusion had fueled frustration among supporters, warning that neglecting youth participation could have wider social implications.
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“You cannot expect young people to remain loyal when they are not carried along. Genuine youth engagement is critical to reducing crime, restiveness and social tension,” he added.
Abdullahi dismissed insinuations that political actors were coercing or inducing the youths to take sides, stressing that their stance was driven purely by interest and expectations.
“Politics is about interest. If the government listens to the youths, empowers them and gives them a sense of belonging, they will naturally support the government,” he said.
He disclosed that deliberations among various youth groups showed a willingness to align with the governor if their concerns were addressed.
According to him, representatives of no fewer than 32 youth groups participated in the engagement, with about 400 youths in attendance, during which empowerment support valued at N20 million was distributed.
