By Muhammad Mamman
A fresh political storm has erupted in Kano State after a senior figure of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, issued a sharp warning to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf amid reports of defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Kwankwaso, a former Kano State governor and presidential candidate of the NNPP, was quoted as saying Governor Yusuf would “regret” any move perceived as undermining the party’s platform or enabling political realignments favouring the ruling APC. His remarks come against the backdrop of growing speculation and reported defections by political actors in Kano, a state long regarded as a stronghold of the Kwankwasiyya political movement.
The APC has recently welcomed defectors from opposition parties, describing the development as a sign of growing confidence in its leadership and governance agenda. Party officials argue that the defections reflect dissatisfaction within rival camps and a desire by politicians to align with the centre.
However, Kwankwaso dismissed such claims, insisting that the NNPP remains firmly rooted in Kano and retains the support of the grassroots. He warned that any attempt to weaken the party’s structure in the state would have political consequences, stressing that the Kwankwasiyya movement was built on years of mobilisation and loyalty that could not be easily dismantled.
Governor Yusuf, who rode to victory on the NNPP platform, has yet to publicly respond to Kwankwaso’s comments. His administration has, however, maintained that it remains focused on governance and delivering on campaign promises rather than political distractions.
The unfolding tensions highlight the deepening rivalry between the NNPP and the APC in Kano, with analysts predicting that the state could become a major battleground ahead of future elections. As defections continue to reshape the political landscape, all eyes remain on Kano to see how the power struggle within and between parties will play out.
