Kano Governor Abba Yusuf defects from NNPP to APC, prompting criticism from Kwankwaso supporters and political analysts ahead of 2027 elections
Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has formally defected from the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), marking the loss of the party’s only state ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Also read: NNPP Says Abba Yusuf Free to Quit Party Without Kwankwaso
The move, announced on January 26, 2026, saw Yusuf publicly align with Abdullahi Ganduje, former governor and longtime political rival of NNPP leader Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso.
The defection has provoked strong reactions from NNPP loyalists, who described the governor’s action as prioritising personal survival over party loyalty.
In his resignation letter, Yusuf cited persistent internal crises, unresolved leadership disputes, prolonged court cases involving party leadership, deep divisions, and disenfranchisement of members as reasons for leaving the NNPP.
He maintained that staying in the party no longer served the best interests of Kano State.
Kwankwaso, former governor and leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, reacted emotionally, declaring January 23 as “Betrayal Day” to mark Yusuf’s departure.
He told BBC Hausa that the move would undermine Yusuf’s chances in the 2027 governorship election, citing the limited public support for Ganduje-aligned candidates in Kano.
NNPP officials, including Secretary Buba Galadima and National Youth Leader Auwal Musa Muhammad, reaffirmed their loyalty to Kwankwaso.
They insisted that the party’s structure, ideology, and grassroots support remain intact, and warned that no individual defection could weaken the NNPP’s influence across the state or nationwide.
Commentators and activists also weighed in. Chief Peter Ameh said that Yusuf owes his political rise to Kwankwaso and predicted that the defection would carry electoral consequences in 2027.
“As long as Kwankwaso remains in NNPP, Yusuf should be afraid of the consequences of his action,” Ameh said.
The APC, however, expressed confidence in Yusuf’s prospects, with party spokesperson Bala Ibrahim citing past victories of Ganduje-backed candidates as evidence of guaranteed success.
Kano State Government officials echoed this view, stating that the electorate’s loyalty is based on performance and credibility, rather than party affiliation.
Political analysts point to historical parallels, including the 1983 defection of Alhaji Abubakar Rimi, as a cautionary tale for defectors.
NNPP warned that trading loyalty for expediency often leads to electoral defeat and public judgment.
The rivalry continues to play out in public. Both Yusuf and Kwankwaso made separate appearances at Singer Market following a devastating fire, offering support to traders.
Also read: Abba Yusuf Intensifies Security Push as Tinubu Deploys Team
The contrasting receptions underscored the enduring influence of Kwankwaso while highlighting Yusuf’s attempt to consolidate support ahead of the next elections.
