By Muhammad Mamman
The Kano State chapter of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has declared that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf must formally resign his office before defecting to any other political party.
The party made the assertion on Tuesday amid growing speculation over the governor’s political future and alleged moves to align with another platform ahead of the next election cycle.
Speaking in Kano, NNPP state officials said the mandate that produced Governor Yusuf belongs to the party and the electorate who voted for its symbol, stressing that any attempt to defect while retaining the governorship would amount to a breach of political and moral trust.
The party argued that the governor emerged on the NNPP ticket and, as such, cannot lawfully or ethically continue to occupy the office if he chooses to abandon the platform that sponsored his election.
“The governorship is not a personal mandate. It was freely given to our party by the people of Kano State. If the governor intends to defect, the honourable path is to resign first,” a party spokesperson said.
The NNPP further warned that it would explore all lawful options to protect its mandate should the governor defect without stepping down, adding that the party remains committed to internal discipline and respect for democratic principles.
Governor Yusuf has not publicly responded to the statement, nor has his administration confirmed any plans to leave the NNPP.
The development adds to the growing political tension in Kano State as parties begin early positioning ahead of future elections, with defections and realignments expected to intensify in the months ahead.
