Political tensions have escalated in Kano State as Governor Abba Yusuf’s decision to defect from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) caused a major fallout with his political godfather, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
Despite last-minute efforts to halt the move, Yusuf declared his defection “irrevocable,” while his deputy, Aminu Gwarzo, chose to remain loyal to Kwankwaso, a decision that could trigger impeachment proceedings.
Kwankwaso, the NNPP’s national leader, said he is not opposed to joining the APC but insisted he would not do so without clear, written assurances.
He cited past experiences of political betrayal, stressing the need to protect his supporters, lawmakers and the Kano political structure before any defection.
According to him, any alliance with APC must define his role, the future of Kano’s government, and safeguards for those who stood by him.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu is expected to formally receive Governor Yusuf and other Kano political heavyweights into the APC upon his return from the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week in the UAE.
Party sources revealed that negotiations are underway for Yusuf to control about 60 per cent of the Kano APC structure, with the remaining 40 per cent allocated to existing party members, a deal aimed at easing internal tensions.
Yusuf’s defection is seen as a significant blow to Kwankwaso’s political influence in Kano, as several members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, lawmakers, council chairmen and cabinet members have pledged allegiance to the governor and followed him into the APC.
The move has strengthened Tinubu’s foothold in the state ahead of the 2027 general election, even as some Kwankwasiyya loyalists vowed to resist pressure to defect.
Addressing supporters in Kano, Kwankwaso explained that his cautious stance was strategic, aimed at maintaining leverage in negotiations with the APC leadership.
He reiterated that while some appointees loyal to him may “conditionally” align with the governor to ease political tension, he and key allies, including Deputy Governor Gwarzo, would remain in NNPP until firm guarantees are secured.