The Kwankwasiyya Movement has expressed concern over reports that a proposed bill before the United States Congress allegedly references its leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, in connection with claims of “severe religious freedom violations.”
In a press statement dated February 12, 2026, and signed by its spokesperson, Dr. Habibu Sale Mohammed, the movement described the allegations as unfounded and misleading, insisting that they are inconsistent with the former Kano governor’s public record.
The statement was reacting to reports surrounding the proposed Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act 2026 (HR 7457), which allegedly mentioned Senator Kwankwaso.
According to the movement, Senator Kwankwaso has served Nigeria for over three decades in various high-level positions, including Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, two-term Governor of Kano State, Minister of Defence, Senator, and Presidential Candidate, without ever being indicted or prosecuted for religious persecution, extremism, or human rights violations.
The group noted that the adoption of Sharia-based legal systems in some northern states was carried out within the framework of Nigeria’s federal constitution and was not unique to Kano State or initiated by a single individual. It added that such legal systems remain subject to constitutional oversight and judicial review.
“To single out Senator Kwankwaso while similar constitutional arrangements exist across several states raises serious questions about the basis and evidentiary standards behind such a recommendation,” the statement read.
The movement further argued that international relations should be guided by contextual understanding and respect for constitutional sovereignty, noting that the United States maintains diplomatic ties with countries whose legal systems incorporate Islamic jurisprudence.
It maintained that Senator Kwankwaso’s record demonstrates opposition to violence, extremism, and terrorism. During his tenure as Governor of Kano State, the statement said, measures were taken to curb extremist threats and promote peaceful coexistence among religious groups.
The group also referenced his 2023 presidential ticket, which paired him with Bishop Isaac Idahosa, as evidence of his commitment to religious inclusion and national unity.
While calling on the US Congress to reject the alleged recommendation and remove Kwankwaso’s name from the proposed bill, the movement suggested that the inclusion may have been influenced by political rivals or individuals pursuing personal grievances.
“Allegations of this magnitude must be grounded in demonstrable facts, not generalized assumptions,” the statement added.
The Kwankwasiyya Movement expressed confidence that fairness, due diligence, and objective assessment would ultimately prevail.