Rabiu Kwankwaso, national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), says he has no “price tag” and cannot be financially induced in politics.
The former governor of Kano State made the remarks while reflecting on recent political developments, loyalty, betrayal, and the state of governance in Kano.
Kwankwaso stated that politics comes with gains and losses but noted that acts of betrayal often attract public disapproval, particularly in times of widespread dissatisfaction.
“Life is like that; one loses, another gets. Of course, he entered a system that has no exit point,” he said.
“First, we know that betrayal is not good. Everybody knows how that party is losing the sympathy of the people, especially with regards to insecurity and the economy.”
The NNPP leader emphasised that Kano politics is distinct from other states, highlighting that voters in the state are politically aware and not easily influenced by financial inducements.
“Kano politics in Nigeria is different. If not in Kano, where is it that one will meet you with a money bag and go into a meeting with you that they will give you things?” he asked.
Kwankwaso dismissed claims that all politicians could be bought, stating, “people used to say in Nigeria that everyone has a price tag. If you are looking for who has no price tag, come to Rabiu Kwankwaso.”
He noted that if financial gain were his motivation, he could easily assign a value to himself, but no one could purchase his conscience.
“You will spend four years suffering, and one day they will come and give you peanuts, and then you spend another four years,” he warned politicians and voters against short-term inducements.
Kwankwaso urged political actors to uphold principles and prioritise the long-term interests of the public, stressing that leadership based on inducement and betrayal cannot deliver meaningful development.
