The Kwankwasiyya Movement has rejected attempts by five US lawmakers to blacklist its leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, over alleged “severe religious freedom violations” in Nigeria.
The move follows the introduction of the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act 2026 (HR 7457) to the US Congress, which, if passed, would impose visa bans and asset freezes on Kwankwaso and groups like the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association (MACBAN).
In a statement, spokesperson Habibu Sale Mohammed described the allegations as “unfounded” and “politically motivated,” demanding the immediate removal of Kwankwaso’s name from the proposed legislation.
The group argued that linking the former Kano State Governor to religious extremism over the implementation of Sharia law ignores the constitutional and regional context, noting that Sharia-based legal systems exist in multiple northern states and are subject to constitutional oversight.
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The Kwankwasiyya Movement highlighted Kwankwaso’s long public service record, including his tenure as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, two-term Governor of Kano State, Minister of Defence, and Senator and noted that he has “never been indicted, prosecuted, or credibly accused of religious persecution or human rights violations.”
The group also cited his 2023 presidential ticket with Bishop Isaac Idahosa as evidence of his commitment to religious inclusion and national unity.
The movement urged the US Congress to reject the recommendation, warning that the allegations may be driven by personal or political motives.
Kwankwaso was described as “a nationalist, a democrat, and a statesman whose public service has been anchored on justice, unity, and inclusive governance,” with the group expressing confidence that fairness and objective assessment would ultimately prevail.