The Kwankwasiyya Amana X (KAX) has distanced the Kwankwasiyya Movement from political violence and warned against the misuse of its signature red-and-white cap, insisting the attire is a symbol of political identity and not a licence for criminal conduct.
In a statement signed by its management, the movement clarified that Kwankwasiyya is a distinct political movement and should not be confused with the Obidient Movement associated with former Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi.
It explained that the red-and-white Kwankwasiyya cap represents the movement’s political identity, heritage, solidarity and commitment to public service, and must never be interpreted as an endorsement of violence, intimidation or criminal conduct.
The movement expressed concern over circulating videos and allegations involving individuals reportedly carrying machetes and other dangerous objects during political confrontations, including reports surrounding the violent incident in Asaba, Delta State, in which a person reportedly lost his life.
It condemned the killing of any Nigerian in the name of politics and called for a thorough, impartial investigation to establish the circumstances, identify those responsible and ensure accountability under the law.
“Wearing a Kwankwasiyya cap does not make an individual a member of our movement,” the statement stressed, adding that the movement particularly objects to any attempt by individuals outside it to use its distinctive political attire to misrepresent their affiliations, intimidate citizens or falsely implicate Kwankwasiyya supporters in unlawful activities.
Where allegations suggest that persons associated with the Obidient Movement wore Kwankwasiyya-style caps during violent incidents, the movement urged the relevant security agencies to investigate the claims and establish the facts, warning that political affiliation, clothing or social media allegations must not be substituted for evidence of individual responsibility.
It further called on all political organisations, including the Obidient Movement, to discourage supporters from carrying dangerous weapons, issuing threats or engaging in political intimidation.
Reiterating its position, the movement said Kwankwasiyya rejects political violence and intimidation; that its signature cap must not be misused to disguise criminal activity or misrepresent political affiliation; and that every Nigerian deserves to participate in politics without fear of attack.
It also demanded that anyone responsible for murder, assault or threats should face lawful investigation and prosecution, regardless of political affiliation, while cautioning that no political movement should be collectively blamed for the actions of individuals without credible evidence.
The statement concluded that Nigeria’s political future must be determined through peaceful participation, lawful campaigning and democratic elections, “not machetes, threats or bloodshed,” stressing that “the Kwankwasiyya cap is a symbol of political identity, not a licence for violence.”
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