Kano, Nigeria – Abba Yusuf, Governor of Kano State, is poised to defect from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), according to sources close to the matter. The move, expected to be formalized in the coming days, marks a significant shift in Nigerian politics, as Yusuf, a key player in the country’s northwest region, aligns with the party of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Background:
Kano State, Nigeria’s most populous, has been a hotbed of political activity, with the NNPP emerging as a major force in the 2023 elections. Yusuf’s victory was seen as a major upset, with the party’s strong grassroots support and Kwankwaso’s influence playing key roles.
However, internal power struggles and disagreements over the party’s direction have weakened the NNPP, creating an opportunity for Yusuf to explore other options. The Governor’s falling out with Kwankwaso, his longtime mentor, has been attributed to differences over party leadership and governance.
The Defection:
Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, former APC National Chairman, is expected to receive Yusuf into the party, signaling a strategic alliance aimed at consolidating power in Kano State. The move is seen as a bid to secure a second term in office, with the APC offering a more stable platform for Yusuf’s ambitions.
Implications:
The defection could have far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly in the northwest, and may influence the 2027 general elections. The NNPP has rejected Yusuf’s defection, urging members to remain loyal, while the APC has welcomed the move as a boost to its governance efforts.
Key Players:
– Abba Yusuf: Kano State Governor, seeking a second term
– Rabiu Kwankwaso: NNPP leader, Yusuf’s longtime mentor
– Abdullahi Umar Ganduje: Former APC National Chairman, facilitating Yusuf’s defection
– Bola Ahmed Tinubu: President of Nigeria, APC leader
The development underscores the fluid nature of Nigerian politics, where alliances are often forged and broken in pursuit of power and influence.
