By Muhammad Mamman
Nigeria’s political temperature rose on Tuesday as former Kano State governor and New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) presidential candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of pressuring state governors across the country to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Kwankwaso, speaking during a political gathering in Kano, said the president’s alleged efforts to consolidate political control through mass defections would not translate into electoral support from ordinary Nigerians.
“Tinubu is putting pressure on all governors to defect to APC. But he should be reminded that even if all the 36 state governors defect to APC, the masses are not with him and they will vote him out,” he said.
The former defence minister argued that political manoeuvring among elites does not reflect the mood of citizens who, he claimed, are increasingly dissatisfied with the government’s performance.
Kwankwaso’s remarks come amid rising speculation that several opposition governors may be considering alignment with the APC ahead of future elections. The presidency has not responded to the allegations.
Analysts say Kwankwaso’s comments highlight deepening tensions within Nigeria’s political landscape, with opposition leaders warning that mass defections could undermine democratic credibility.
The APC has yet to issue an official reaction.
