The Kwankwasiyya Movement has said it welcomes criticism but will not tolerate what it described as false and defamatory claims against its leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

In a statement issued on Wednesday night to DAILY POST, its spokesperson, Habeeb Sale Mohammed, stressed that while democratic engagement allows for differing opinions, there must be a clear distinction between constructive criticism and deliberate falsehood.

“We are open to criticism, but not lies,” the statement said, 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.

The statement added that it welcomes criticism when it is constructive, factual and aimed at strengthening democratic culture.

It, however, warned against the spread of what it called 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 Senator Kwankwaso, who has spent decades in public service, has always shown tolerance and maturity in handling criticism and opposition.

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

But it maintained that it would not remain silent in the face of what it described as deliberate lies 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,” the statement said.

The movement warned that those spreading false claims should be ready to defend them 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,” it said.

It added that freedom of expression comes with responsibility.

“Public discourse must be guided by facts, evidence and honesty. Democracy cannot thrive where falsehood is elevated above truth,” the statement noted.

The movement also 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 statement further noted that since his emergence as vice-presidential candidate of the NDC, Kwankwaso has been working to build alliances across the country.

It highlighted his relationship with the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, saying their collaboration has inspired hope among 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 comes in the wake of remarks by Primate Elijah Ayodele, founder and head of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Lagos, who allegedly made comments during a sermon questioning Kwankwaso’s relationship with Peter Obi.

Ayodele was reported to have said, “Kwankwaso is a fake to Obi, Kwankwaso will betray you. Kwankwaso has been paid to be vice president to Obi.”

Following the comments, Kwankwaso, who is the vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), reportedly threatened to institute a N10 billion defamation suit against the cleric over the alleged remarks.

As clubs across Europe accelerate their summer transfer business, a number of Super Eagles stars find themselves at crucial crossroads, with their futures still unresolved ahead of the 2026/2027 season.

For some, the uncertainty stems from expiring contracts and free-agent status. For others, loan agreements, transfer negotiations, and pending club decisions have left their next moves hanging in the balance.

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Whatever the circumstances, the coming weeks could prove decisive, not only for their club careers but also for their standing in the Super Eagles setup as Nigeria’s preparations for the FIFA World Cup gather momentum.

Stanley Nwabali Waiting for the Right Move

Super Eagles first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali is among the most prominent Nigerian players yet to secure his future.

The 29-year-old became a free agent following his departure from South African club Chippa United and has since been linked with several clubs across Africa and Europe.

Despite growing speculation surrounding his next destination, Nwabali has remained patient, insisting he is focused on finding the right project rather than rushing into a decision.

Joe Aribo Available

After Southampton Exit
Midfielder Joe Aribo is another Nigerian international currently without a club.

The former Rangers star left Southampton at the expiration of his contract, bringing an end to a spell that saw him feature in both the Premier League and Championship.

Aribo’s experience and versatility are expected to attract interest from clubs in England, Scotland, and elsewhere, but his next destination remains unclear.

Kelechi Iheanacho Awaits Celtic Decision

The future of Kelechi Iheanacho remains one of the more intriguing situations involving Nigerian players this summer.

The striker’s current deal with Scottish champions Celtic is due to expire at the end of June, although the club retains the option of extending the contract for an additional year.

Iheanacho has openly stated his desire to continue at Parkhead, but Celtic are yet to announce a final decision, leaving the former Leicester City forward in a state of uncertainty.

Samuel Chukwueze’s Future Yet to Be Decided

Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze also faces an important summer.

After spending last season on loan at Fulham from AC Milan, the Premier League side hold an option to make the move permanent.

However, discussions over valuation and transfer terms have reportedly slowed progress, creating uncertainty over whether Chukwueze will remain in England, return to Italy, or attract interest from other European clubs.

Christantus Uche at a Career Crossroads

Young midfielder Christantus Uche is another player whose future remains unresolved.

Following a loan spell at Crystal Palace, the highly-rated midfielder has returned to Spanish side Getafe, where club officials are assessing their plans for the coming season.

Interest from other clubs could yet open the door to another move before the transfer deadline, but for now, Uche’s immediate future remains in Spain.

Implications

The uncertainty surrounding these players underlines the unpredictable nature of the transfer market.

While some are searching for new clubs, others are awaiting contract extensions, permanent-transfer decisions, or breakthroughs in ongoing negotiations.

For Nigeria’s coaching staff, these developments will be closely monitored.

Regular playing time remains a key factor for players hoping to retain their places in the Super Eagles squad ahead of major international competitions.

As the transfer window progresses, the situations involving Stanley Nwabali, Joe Aribo, Kelechi Iheanacho, Samuel Chukwueze, Christantus Uche, will remain among the most closely watched stories involving Nigerian footballers abroad.

The next few weeks could shape not only their individual careers but also the future composition of the Super Eagles as Nigeria looks ahead to the biggest stage in world football.