Kano Governor Abba Yusuf Set to Defect from NNPP to APC
By Ranti Thomas
Arrangements have been finalized for Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf to formally defect from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All-Progressives Congress (APC), following extensive consultations with political stakeholders across the state.
A member of the Kano State Executive Council confirmed on Sunday that the governor is expected to officially join the APC on Monday. The source described the move as the culmination of widespread discussions with local and national party figures, as well as grassroots leaders, aimed at ensuring broad-based support for the defection.
The defection was initially scheduled for January 5 but was postponed to allow Governor Yusuf to hold further consultations, particularly with National Assembly members from the state. The extension was reportedly designed to secure wider backing for the move and minimise internal resistance.
According to the source, the Kano chapter of the APC has been fully mobilised to welcome the governor. The party reportedly coordinated meetings with influential leaders, party executives, and members of the electorate to ensure a smooth integration of Yusuf and his supporters into the ruling party.
“Yes, of course, the governor is joining APC tomorrow with all his NNPP supporters,” the source, a state commissioner, said, confirming the scale of the move and the inclusion of several local government chairmen and NNPP lawmakers.
Former Kano State Governor and immediate past national chairman of the APC, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, returned from Dubai on Sunday and is expected to play a leading role in receiving Governor Yusuf into the party. Ganduje, alongside the Kano APC Chairman Abdullahi Abbas, extended a formal invitation to Yusuf on behalf of influential party leaders.
Sources indicate that internal crises and ongoing court cases within the NNPP were key factors influencing Yusuf’s decision to defect. Party insiders said the move is expected to strengthen the APC’s presence in Kano State and bolster its political structure ahead of upcoming elections.
Governor Yusuf’s planned defection is already generating reactions within the state. While the APC has reportedly expressed excitement and support for the move, NNPP leader Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has opposed the defection. The state political landscape is expected to experience significant shifts as the transition takes place.