A former governor of Kano State and leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, on Sunday hosted prominent Nigerian political figures at his residence in Kano as part of activities marking the Sallah celebrations.
Those received include the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi; Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde; and a former Bayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson.
Kwankwaso disclosed this in a message shared on his official social media platforms, where he described the visit as part of a “joyful Sallah celebration” with the dignitaries.
“Delighted to host Their Excellencies, Peter Obi, Seyi Makinde, and Seriake Dickson at my Kano residence for this joyful Sallah celebration. Wishing everyone peace, blessings, and prosperity,” he stated.
The visit comes amid ongoing political realignments and consultations across party lines ahead of future electoral contests, with analysts interpreting such high-profile engagements as part of broader coalition-building efforts.
Speaking at the annual ‘kalankuwa’ gathering of the Kwankwasiyya movement held at Kwankwaso’s residence, Obi said the visit was to pay sallah homage.
He called for the revival of Kano’s industrial base, particularly in key manufacturing hubs such as Bompai and Sharada.
“I’m here to felicitate with you on the occasion of the Sallah and to pay my respects to our leader,” Obi told the crowd of supporters, who turned out in large numbers for the event.
Highlighting Kano’s historical role as a commercial and industrial hub, the former Anambra State governor stressed the need to restore moribund industries across the state.
“We want to change Kano. We want to build a new Kano. What we want to do is to make sure that we bring back the power of Kano,” he said.
He specifically mentioned industrial areas such as Bompai, Sharada Phase I and II, as well as legacy institutions like the Bank of the North, noting that efforts should be made to revive them to boost economic activities and create jobs.
Obi, however, clarified that his presence at the event was not for political campaigning but to join in the Sallah festivities and honour Kwankwaso.
“Today is not about politics; it is the celebration of Sallah. May Almighty Allah bless all of you,” he added.
