Kwankwasiyya Movement Warns Against Defamation of Kwankwaso, Threatens Legal Action

The Kwankwasiyya Movement has declared that while it welcomes constructive criticism of its leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, it will not tolerate what it described as false and defamatory claims against him.

In a statement issued on Wednesday night and made available to InfoStride News, Kwankwasiyya Movement Warns Against Defamation of Kwankwaso, Threatens Legal Action, the movement’s spokesperson, Habeeb Sale Mohammed, said democratic engagement permits differing opinions but stressed that there is a clear distinction between criticism and deliberate falsehood.

“We are open to criticism, but not lies,” the statement read, noting that political leaders are expected to face scrutiny in a democratic society.

The movement said it believes in freedom of expression and the right of Nigerians to hold and express political views, adding that it welcomes criticism that is constructive, factual and aimed at strengthening democratic culture.

However, it warned against the spread of what it termed malicious allegations.

“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.

The group said Kwankwaso, who has spent decades in public service, has consistently demonstrated tolerance and maturity in responding to criticism and opposition.

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

The movement, however, maintained that it would not remain silent in the face of deliberate misinformation and character assassination.

“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,” it said.

It warned that individuals or groups spreading false claims should be prepared to defend such allegations through legal means.

“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,” the statement said.

According to the movement, freedom of expression comes with responsibility and public discourse must be guided by facts, evidence and honesty.

“Democracy cannot thrive where falsehood is elevated above truth,” it noted.

The group further stressed that no individual is above the law, regardless of status or position.

“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 movement also stated that since his emergence as the vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Kwankwaso has been working to build alliances across the country.

It highlighted his relationship with the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, describing their collaboration as a source of hope for 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 group accused some individuals of resorting to misinformation and personal attacks instead of engaging in healthy 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 statement followed remarks allegedly made by founder of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Lagos, Primate Elijah Ayodele, during a sermon in which he reportedly questioned Kwankwaso’s relationship with Peter Obi.

Ayodele was quoted as saying: “Kwankwaso is a fake to Obi, Kwankwaso will betray you. Kwankwaso has been paid to be vice president to Obi.”

Following the comments, reports indicated that Kwankwaso threatened to institute a N10 billion defamation suit against the cleric.