By Muhammad Mamman
A deepening political rift has emerged in Kano State following reports that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf is considering defecting to Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a move that has reportedly set his camp against loyalists of his political mentor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
Sources within the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) say the speculation has fuelled tension between key figures aligned with the governor and those firmly loyal to Kwankwaso, the party’s national leader and former Kano governor.
While no official confirmation has been made by Yusuf or his aides, the reported plan has triggered sharp exchanges behind the scenes, with some party leaders warning that a defection would amount to a betrayal of the movement that swept the NNPP to power in Kano.
Kwankwaso’s supporters are said to be strongly opposed to any alliance with the APC, arguing that the party represents policies and politics the NNPP was formed to challenge. They insist that Yusuf’s mandate belongs to the party and its grassroots structure rather than any individual ambition.
On the other hand, sources close to the governor suggest that Yusuf is under increasing pressure to align Kano with the federal government in order to secure greater access to resources and political leverage. They argue that pragmatic governance, rather than party loyalty, should guide strategic decisions.
The standoff has heightened uncertainty within Kano’s political establishment, raising questions about the future of the NNPP in the state and the stability of the governor’s support base.
Political analysts say a defection by Yusuf, if it occurs, could significantly reshape Kano’s political landscape and strengthen the APC’s influence in the North West, while dealing a major blow to Kwankwaso’s regional stronghold.
As the speculation continues, both camps remain publicly silent, leaving party members and residents watching closely for the governor’s next move.
