Kano Political Crisis Deepens As Kwankwaso And Yusuf Camps Clash Over APC Defection Move

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Fresh political tension is unfolding in Kano State following reports that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf may soon dump the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The development has reportedly intensified the power struggle between the governor and NNPP leader Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, with both camps now battling to maintain influence ahead of the 2027 elections.

Kwankwaso Allegedly Moves To Test Loyalty Within NNPP

As rumours surrounding Yusuf’s possible defection continued spreading, sources claimed Kwankwaso responded by introducing a loyalty register aimed at identifying party officials still committed to his leadership and the broader Kwankwasiyya Movement.

Political observers believe the move reflects growing concern within the NNPP over possible cracks inside the party structure.

According to Gossip News Now, tensions became more noticeable during Governor Yusuf’s recent birthday gathering in Abuja, which attracted major political figures and senior government officials.

Kwankwaso reportedly stayed away from the celebration and instead held meetings with loyalists in Kano as part of efforts to strengthen his political network.

Division Expands Across Kano Political Structure

The crisis is said to have spread beyond party leadership circles into legislative structures across the state.

Governor Yusuf reportedly enjoys the backing of the Kano State House of Assembly led by Speaker Jibril Isma’il Falgore, alongside support from all 44 local government chairmen in the state.

However, divisions remain visible among Kano lawmakers at the National Assembly.

While some NNPP federal lawmakers reportedly oppose Yusuf’s planned move to the APC, others have already crossed over to the ruling party in recent months.

The differing positions have further complicated the internal political atmosphere surrounding the governor’s future.

APC Delays Formal Defection Ceremony

Initial plans reportedly scheduled Yusuf’s official entry into the APC earlier this month, with prominent national party leaders expected to oversee the event.

However, insiders later confirmed that the ceremony was postponed to allow further consultations with stakeholders and lawmakers still undecided about the political transition.

Sources close to the governor also disclosed that Yusuf had yet to complete formal APC registration procedures at his ward level.

The move is nevertheless believed to form part of broader calculations aimed at strengthening his political standing within Kano ahead of the next governorship race.

Kwankwaso Camp Faces Internal Shake-Up

The growing disagreement has already triggered major structural changes within the NNPP in Kano State.

One of the most notable developments involved the removal of Hashimu Dungurawa, regarded as a loyal ally of Kwankwaso, from his position as state party chairman.

Governor Yusuf subsequently appointed Alhaji Abdullahi Zubairu Abiya in an acting capacity, though the NNPP national leadership reportedly rejected the change and dissolved multiple party executive structures across the state.

The situation has deepened uncertainty regarding the future direction of the party in Kano.

APC Sees Opportunity Ahead Of 2027

Within the APC, Yusuf’s anticipated arrival is reportedly being viewed as a major political advantage capable of weakening the NNPP nationally.

Party leaders believe securing Kano’s governor would strengthen APC dominance in the North-West and improve electoral calculations ahead of 2027.

Prominent APC figures, including former governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, have publicly encouraged Yusuf to join the party.

However, analysts warn that his entry could also trigger internal competition over future governorship ambitions and leadership influence within Kano APC.

Analysis And Commentary

The unfolding Kano political crisis highlights how rapidly alliances and loyalties can shift within Nigeria’s political environment ahead of major elections.

What initially appeared to be internal party disagreements has now evolved into a broader struggle involving political survival, control of structures and long-term electoral strategy.

Governor Yusuf’s possible defection could significantly reshape the balance of power in Kano, while also testing the strength of the Kwankwasiyya Movement that has dominated the state’s political identity for years.

At the same time, the APC may face fresh internal rivalries if multiple influential figures begin positioning for the 2027 governorship contest following Yusuf’s anticipated arrival.