Kwankwaso Refutes Claims of Approving Gov. Yusuf’s Alleged Move to APC

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Fresh political speculation in Kano has prompted a firm response from the leadership of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), following claims that its national leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, had approved an alleged move by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The rumours, which gained momentum late Tuesday, suggested that Kwankwaso had reversed his long-standing resistance to party defections and was now backing Yusuf’s supposed plan to join the ruling APC. The narrative quickly spread across political platforms, fueling debate over the stability of the NNPP in Kano State.

However, the claim was promptly denied by Kwankwaso’s media aide, Saifullahi Hassan. Speaking on behalf of the former Kano governor, Hassan categorically rejected the reports, branding them as baseless and deliberately misleading.

In a statement issued to clarify the party’s position, Hassan stressed that Kwankwaso remains unwavering in his commitment to the NNPP’s ideals and long-term vision. According to him, the former governor has neither endorsed nor encouraged any defection involving Governor Yusuf.

He further clarified that Governor Yusuf secured his electoral mandate under the NNPP platform and continues to operate within its structure. Any insinuation that Kwankwaso sanctioned a switch to the APC, he said, is a distortion designed to create confusion.

The statement also urged party members, supporters, and the general public to disregard unverified narratives. Hassan advised observers to rely only on credible and confirmed sources of information rather than politically motivated speculation.

Broader Political Context

The controversy reflects ongoing tensions in Kano’s political arena, where shifting alliances frequently trigger rumours of realignments. In Nigeria’s fluid party system, talk of defections is not uncommon, particularly when influential figures are involved.

Kwankwaso’s reputation as a strong ideological figure within the NNPP makes any suggestion of his approval for cross-party migration particularly sensitive. For the party, swiftly countering such claims is essential to preserving unity and public confidence.

Political analysts note that speculation of this nature often emerges during periods of uncertainty or strategic recalibration. Whether these reports are rooted in genuine discussions or merely serve as tools of political pressure remains unclear.

For now, the NNPP leadership’s message is unequivocal: there has been no endorsement from Kwankwaso regarding any alleged move by Governor Yusuf to the APC. The party appears focused on reinforcing loyalty and stabilising its base amid swirling rumours.