APC Opens Door to Gov. Yusuf Says No Automatic Ticket Discussions Yet

Spread the love

The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State, Abdullahi Abbas, has stated that the party is ready to receive Governor Abba Yusuf of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), amid mounting speculation about his potential defection.

Abbas emphasized that the APC remains open to all politicians willing to join, noting that inclusiveness and numerical strength are essential in political competition.

“He is welcome into our party. In politics, no sensible leader rejects additional support. Politics is fundamentally about numbers,” Abbas said during an interview with Daily Trust.

He explained that the addition of Governor Yusuf and his supporters would significantly boost the party’s electoral prospects ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“Any defection into our party translates into increased strength and, ultimately, greater success at the polls,” he added.

Reiterating the APC’s consistent stance, Abbas said the party has always welcomed individuals who choose to align with its vision and principles.

“We have repeatedly made it clear that anyone who recognizes the strength of our party and wishes to join is warmly accepted,” he stated.

No Automatic Ticket Arrangement

Addressing concerns that Governor Yusuf might be negotiating for an automatic ticket as part of his defection, Abbas clarified that such discussions have not taken place.

“That matter is not on the table at the moment. It will only arise after all defection procedures have been fully completed,” he said.

He further disclosed that the governor’s move would likely be accompanied by a significant number of defectors, including elected local government chairmen, councillors, and other political office holders.

“There are several elected officials who will come along with him — local government chairmen, councillors, and other office holders,” he confirmed.

Abbas assured party members that leadership would develop a comprehensive integration plan to ensure smooth cooperation between existing members and new entrants.

“We will carefully design a strategy that accommodates everyone. There will be no conflict between long-standing members and those joining,” he assured.

Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Abbas said the APC’s main objective is to build a united and formidable political force.

“We eagerly anticipate his arrival, and I can assure you that we will establish a framework that ensures collective success for the party,” he stated.

He also dismissed claims surrounding delays in the governor’s defection, explaining that such political transitions require thorough planning and adherence to due process.

“A governor cannot simply wake up and announce a defection. There are necessary procedures that must be followed. Until these are concluded, any move remains a proposal,” he said.

Abbas further refuted reports suggesting that Yusuf had earlier fixed a specific date for his defection.

“At no time did the governor publicly announce a particular date for joining the APC,” he clarified.