Kwankwaso returns from India trip amid US sanctions threat

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

Kwankwaso was received by the NNPP National Chairman, Dr Ajuji Ahmed; Kano State deputy governor, Aminu Gwarzo; the senator representing Kano Central, Rufai Hanga; and other key members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement.

In a viral video circulating on social media, the former presidential candidate was seen passing through security checks at the airport, dressed in a white Babariga paired with his signature Kwankwasiyya cap.

When contacted to verify the clip, the National Publicity Secretary of the NNPP, Ladipo Johnson, confirmed 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 clarified the purpose of Kwankwaso’s trip abroad.

“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 comes just four days after a proposed bill before the United States Congress named him among individuals recommended for targeted sanctions over alleged religious freedom violations in Nigeria.

The legislation, titled the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026 (HR 7457), was introduced by Riley Moore (R-West Virginia) and co-sponsored by Chris Smith (R-New Jersey).

The bill recommends visa bans and asset freezes under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act against individuals and entities accused of involvement in religious freedom abuses.

Those listed include Kwankwaso, Fulani-ethnic nomad militias, and the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, along with Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore.

Aside from the defence put up by the party, Kwankwaso has yet to comment publicly on the proposed US sanctions.