Kwankwaso Hopes for Governor Yusuf to Lead the Way to APC

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Kano State witnessed heightened political activity on Monday as security was noticeably reinforced around the Government House, reflecting rising friction between NNPP leader Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf over the governor’s reported plans to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Governor Yusuf, a long-time ally and protégé of Kwankwaso, is reportedly considering leaving the NNPP, though the move has been postponed to January 12 to allow for consultations with members of the Kano State House of Assembly. The defection is seen as a strategic step in response to current political realities within the state.

Kwankwaso expressed concern over the governor’s intentions, warning that the move could return political influence in Kano to former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, whom the NNPP had long opposed. “He wants to hand over Kano to former Governor Ganduje,” Kwankwaso remarked over the weekend, reflecting his perception of a breach in loyalty.

In response, Governor Yusuf’s media aide, Nagoda, sought to reassure the public, stressing that the governor continues to respect Kwankwaso as a mentor. “We still hold Kwankwaso in high regard as our political leader,” Nagoda told Daily Post, explaining that the decision to join APC is rooted in practical political considerations rather than personal animosity.

Nagoda also cited recent security concerns as a factor. Reports indicated that law enforcement agencies were hesitant to act on the governor’s directives, awaiting instructions from external authorities. He referenced incidents such as the attack on Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II’s convoy near Nassarawa Palace, emphasizing that such unrest highlights the need for a stable political framework. “These kinds of disturbances should not be occurring in Kano. We believe that joining the APC will help restore order and deliver benefits to the people,” he said.

Addressing Kwankwaso’s objections, the aide added, “We are praying that he softens and leads the way to the APC,” signalling hopes for a reconciliatory approach that could facilitate a smoother transition.

The reported defection has also revealed divisions within the APC itself. Senior party figure AbdulMajid DanBilki Kwamanda suggested that both Yusuf and Kwankwaso are coordinating discreetly. In a widely circulated video, he stated, “Nothing but death will wedge in between Abba and Kwankwaso. Abba respects Kwankwaso deeply, and this is simply a political manoeuvre.”

Kwamanda further explained that Kwankwaso is guiding Yusuf to the APC to secure a second term, while Deputy Governor Aminu AbdulSalam remains in the NNPP and intends to contest. “Whoever wins in Kano, it ultimately benefits Kwankwaso,” he added. He also claimed that former Governor Ganduje is part of a larger plan aimed at preventing Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin from contesting the 2027 governorship election.

The unfolding events in Kano highlight the delicate balancing act among the state’s political heavyweights, as alliances and rivalries continue to shape the trajectory of the 2027 electoral landscape.