2027: Governor Yusuf “Won’t Join APC Blindly”

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The anticipated defection of Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has become a complex political puzzle, amid rising uncertainty over the move.

Originally scheduled for the first week of January 2026, the defection was later postponed to January 12, 2026, but has been delayed again as Governor Yusuf conducts extensive consultations with National Assembly members, state legislators, and key APC leaders.

Sources indicate that the latest hold-up stems from Yusuf’s insistence on securing an automatic ticket for the 2027 governorship election as a precondition for joining the ruling party.

An insider familiar with the matter told Daily Post that the APC leadership has so far been unable to meet the request, leaving the decision pending further deliberations.

“The governor does not want to join the APC blindly, only for figures like former national chairman Abdullahi Ganduje to impose their preferred candidate later,” the source said.

The source added that Yusuf could risk losing the political support of his godfather and NNPP leader, Rabiu Kwankwaso, once he defects, making the 2027 race more challenging.

“If Kwankwaso had agreed to move with the governor to the APC, the transition would have been easier. But Kwankwaso is not ready to make the switch — at least, not yet,” the insider explained.

Yusuf Awaiting Presidential Guidance

The source revealed that Governor Yusuf is waiting for a signal from President Bola Tinubu before finalising his move.

“Now that Mr. President has returned, clarity is expected in the coming days. Hopefully, the governor’s request for an automatic ticket will be considered, but he is not the only governor seeking re-election,” the source noted.

Internal NNPP Divisions Fuel Uncertainty

Governor Yusuf’s defection plans have also been influenced by deepening divisions within the NNPP. The dispute reportedly began when a faction loyal to Kwankwaso altered the party logo from the traditional basket of fruits to a book and graduation cap, a change rejected by Yusuf’s camp, which insisted on keeping the original symbol.

The disagreement escalated into legal battles, further destabilising the party and highlighting internal fragmentation.

While Yusuf reportedly has the support of the Kano State House of Assembly Speaker, Hon. Jibril Ismail Falgore, and several local government chairmen, key figures — including his deputy, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, and certain cabinet members — remain loyal to Kwankwaso.