Kwankwaso Kano Governor Abba Yusuf Drift Apart Amid Defection Rumours

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The decades-long political alliance between New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) leader Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf is showing signs of strain, sources indicate.

The relationship, which has spanned roughly 40 years and helped both leaders ascend to governorship positions at different times, is reportedly being tested by diverging political ambitions. Analysts suggest the main point of contention is Governor Yusuf’s rumored plan to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for a second term, while Kwankwaso remains committed to the NNPP, aiming to preserve his presidential prospects or explore partnerships with other opposition parties.

Insiders revealed that Governor Yusuf has been holding talks with APC figures in Kano. These include a midweek meeting with APC State Chairman Abdullahi Abbas prior to the chairman’s trip abroad, as well as encounters with former Kano State House of Assembly Speaker Kabiru Rirum and ex-APC National Chairman Abdullahi Umar Ganduje at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport.

The festive season has heightened tensions within the NNPP. While some members considered defecting to the APC, others resisted, citing loyalty and gratitude to Kwankwaso for their political advancement.

“Previous attempts to defect against Kwankwaso historically ended in his favour, disadvantaging those who disengaged from him. This reality has made the path to APC more complicated for potential defectors,” a source explained.

Key NNPP figures remain loyal to Kwankwaso, including Deputy Governor Abdulsalam Aminu Gwarzo, State Chairman Hamisu Dungurawa, and the governor’s political adviser, alongside several state lawmakers. Meanwhile, some local government chairmen are caught between loyalty to the NNPP and the perceived advantages of siding with Governor Yusuf.

The defection buzz has unsettled Kano’s political landscape. Reports indicate that State Party Chairman Hamisu Dungurawa was suspended by his ward amid the rumors, with a faction naming Abdullahi Zubairu Abiya as replacement. The NNPP National Working Committee later nullified the suspension, labeling it “misplaced, undemocratic, null and void,” according to National Publicity Secretary Bamofin Ladipo.

There are also unverified claims that Mustapha Kwankwaso, son of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, resigned from the Kano State Executive Council.

Observers attribute the rift to a combination of strategic differences and pressures from political intermediaries, with misaligned ambitions at its core. One insider explained:

“The governor could move to the APC, secure a ticket, and win in 2027. But if Kwankwaso follows, what does he gain? No vice-presidential slot, possibly not even a ministerial post. That’s why he’s hesitant to defect without a clear promise.”

Despite the tensions, sources emphasize that no personal animosity exists between the two leaders, who share family ties. Much of the discord is being amplified by loyalists on both sides.

The unfolding dispute has stirred Kano’s political class, leaving aides concerned about job security and supporters preparing for potential conflicts. Opposition parties, particularly the PDP, are reportedly monitoring developments closely for strategic advantage.