Kwankwasiyya Movement Warns Against Defamation, Says Criticism Must Be Fact-Based

The Kwankwasiyya Movement has declared that while it remains open to criticism and political opposition, it will not tolerate what it described as deliberate falsehoods and defamatory attacks against its leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and the movement.

In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Dr. Habibu Sale Mohammed, the movement reaffirmed its commitment to democratic values, including freedom of expression, political competition, and citizens’ rights to hold and express differing political opinions.

The group stated that public office holders and political leaders naturally attract scrutiny and criticism, noting that Senator Kwankwaso, having spent decades in public service, remains one of Nigeria’s most scrutinized political figures.

According to the statement, constructive criticism aimed at strengthening democracy is welcome, but the movement drew a distinction between legitimate political commentary and what it called the deliberate spread of falsehoods intended to damage reputations, incite hatred, and mislead the public.

“The Kwankwasiyya Movement is not afraid of criticism or political opposition. However, there is a clear distinction between legitimate political criticism and the deliberate publication of falsehoods designed to deceive the public and damage reputations,” the statement said.

The movement warned that individuals or groups who knowingly publish false and defamatory claims against Senator Kwankwaso should be prepared to defend such allegations through lawful channels.

It stressed that freedom of expression comes with responsibilities and that public discourse must be guided by facts, evidence, and honesty.

The statement further noted that the movement would pursue all legal remedies available against anyone found intentionally disseminating malicious allegations against its leader, regardless of the person’s status or position in society.

“No individual is above the law. No office is too high. No position is too influential,” the movement stated, adding that politicians, clerics, traditional rulers, media personalities, and other public figures would not be exempt from legal action if they engage in defamation.

The group emphasized that its position should not be interpreted as hostility toward criticism, insisting that it remains open to constructive engagement and honest disagreement.

Commenting on recent political developments, the movement said Senator Kwankwaso has focused on expanding political engagement and building bridges across different regions of the country since emerging as the Vice-Presidential Candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

It also highlighted what it described as a cordial working relationship between Kwankwaso and the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, as well as his outreach to stakeholders across political, religious, and ethnic divides.

According to the statement, the growing popularity of Senator Kwankwaso and the increasing acceptance of the NDC have unsettled some political interests, leading to what it termed a campaign of misinformation and personal attacks.

The movement maintained that such actions would not distract it from its objectives of promoting good governance, social justice, national unity, and national development.

It called on political actors, commentators, and stakeholders to embrace responsible discourse and issue-based political engagement as the country prepares for another democratic transition.

The statement reaffirmed the movement’s commitment to advancing the welfare of Nigerians and fostering a more united and prosperous nation