Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has reportedly decided to leave the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC), despite opposition from allies within his camp.
The move signals what appears to be a decisive break between the governor and his long-time mentor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, as Yusuf positions himself ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Governor Yusuf, who was elected on the NNPP platform in 2023, was initially expected to formally join the APC on January 5, 2026.
The event was later shifted to January 12, fuelling talk of ongoing negotiations and political consultations.
Sources say Yusuf is no longer persuaded by pleas from Kwankwaso and other NNPP leaders asking him to remain in the party.
Their disagreement is believed to have widened, with reconciliation now considered unlikely.
According to party insiders, the governor is increasingly concerned about internal crises in the NNPP, including leadership disputes that could weaken the party ahead of 2027.
He is also said to be closely watching power shifts in Kano politics, especially the rising influence of the Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, who is reportedly favoured within the APC for the 2027 governorship ticket.
Observers believe Barau’s growing political strength may be a key factor in Yusuf’s calculation, as remaining outside the APC could make retaining power more difficult.
Sources also claim Yusuf sought firm assurances before committing to the move, including guarantees from President Bola Tinubu and senior APC figures regarding support for the party’s governorship ticket.
There are indications the APC believes it can manage any internal rivalry, including persuading Senator Barau to step aside if necessary.
As consultations continue, the governor’s defection — and what it means for Kano’s political landscape — remains a major talking point ahead of the next election cycle.
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