By Muhammad Mamman
A potential defection by former Kano State governor and NNPP leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) could dramatically reshape the state’s political landscape, with growing indications that Ahmad Garba Bichi may emerge as his preferred governorship candidate.
Political insiders and analysts suggest that such a development would pose a serious challenge to the prospects of incumbent Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, widely known as Abba Gida-Gida, who rose to power under the NNPP platform with Kwankwaso as his main political backer.
Speculation intensified this week after reports circulated within Kano’s political circles that the ADC is courting Kwankwaso as part of a broader realignment ahead of upcoming elections. Party insiders say that if the former governor officially joins the ADC, the party would likely hand its governorship ticket to Ahmad Garba Bichi, a long-time ally and loyalist.
Analysts warn that such a shift could deepen divisions within the Kwankwasiyya movement and further destabilise the NNPP, which has already been weakened by internal disputes and legal battles.
“If Kwankwaso joins the ADC, it is almost certain that Ahmad Garba Bichi will be his governorship candidate,” a political observer in Kano told Al Jazeera. “If that happens, it’s effectively game over for Abba.”
Governor Yusuf has not publicly responded to the speculation, and the NNPP has insisted that it remains united despite recent tensions. However, the rumoured moves underscore worsening fractures within the party and highlight the intense manoeuvring ahead of the next electoral cycle.
