Kwankwaso returns from India amid US sanction

The Rabiu Kwankwaso, National Leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party, returned to Nigeria on Sunday through Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, following what the party described as “strategic international engagements” in India.

Kwankwaso was warmly received by senior party figures, including Ajuji Ahmed, the Kano State Deputy Governor Aminu Gwarzo, Senator Rufai Hanga, and other prominent members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement.

In a viral video circulating on social media, the former presidential candidate was seen clearing security at the airport, dressed in a white babariga and his trademark Kwankwasiyya cap.

Confirming the footage, the NNPP National Publicity Secretary, Ladipo Johnson, verified Kwankwaso’s arrival.

“Yes, it is true. Senator Kwankwaso arrived in Abuja this afternoon, where he was met with party officials and NNPP chieftains before heading home,” he said.

Johnson also explained the purpose of the trip.

“He went to India because of a meeting with educational institutions, where he was also given an award. That was where he was before all these false narratives broke out,” he stated.

Kwankwaso’s return came four days after a proposed bill before the United States Congress listed him among individuals recommended for targeted sanctions over alleged religious freedom violations in Nigeria.

The bill, titled the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026 (HR 7457), was introduced by Riley Moore and co-sponsored by Chris Smith.

The proposed legislation recommends visa bans and asset freezes against individuals and entities accused of involvement in religious freedom abuses, including Kwankwaso, Fulani-ethnic nomad militias, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, and Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore.

Apart from the party’s defence, Kwankwaso has yet to publicly respond to the proposed US sanctions.