In a significant political development, the Kano State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has publicly invited the state governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, to join its ranks. The invitation, issued on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, comes from the party's leadership under its former national chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje.
An Open Call for Defection
Abdullahi Abbas, the state chairman of the APC in Kano, confirmed the special invitation in an official statement. The party explicitly asked Governor Yusuf, who was elected on the platform of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in 2023, to feel free and join their political fold. This bold move is seen as a direct attempt to woo the sitting governor away from the opposition.
The potential defection of Governor Yusuf has already caused visible cracks within the NNPP, creating a notable division. The invitation from the ruling APC is a strategic play that could dramatically alter the political landscape of Kano State, a key battleground in Nigerian politics.
Public Reactions and Political Analysis
Following the news, Nigerians have taken to social media and other platforms to share diverse perspectives on the APC's open invitation.
One user, Yusuf Jameel, advised caution, suggesting the governor should remain in the NNPP unless he receives approval from the party's national leader, Rabiu Kwankwaso. He drew a parallel, stating, "Kwankwaso is to Kano what Wike is to Rivers," implying the formidable influence Kwankwaso wields in the state's politics.
Another commentator, Lehman, offered a different angle, suggesting that Kwankwaso himself might be eyeing a grand entry into the APC. He posited that Kwankwaso might want Governor Yusuf to be defeated first, so that Yusuf could then facilitate a "dignified and respected" welcome for his former boss into the APC.
The move was also critiqued as a strong-arm tactic. A user named Wahala-Digest commented that the APC's strategy of recruiting rivals raises questions about the party's confidence in its own popularity, suggesting it prefers to "swallow the opposition whole rather than actually compete."
A Gesture for Unity or Political Calculation?
Not all reactions were critical. Ahmad Ololu commended the development as a highlight of Kano's shifting political dynamics. He framed the invitation as part of the APC's broader push for unity and consolidation, aimed at fostering reconciliation and strengthening governance through cooperation.
Ololu argued that such gestures, if handled with sincerity, could reduce political tensions and refocus attention on service delivery and the welfare of Kano's people. He emphasized that the ultimate decision rests with Governor Yusuf, but the invitation underscores the importance of dialogue and putting state development above partisan rivalry.
This political maneuvering sets the stage for potential realignments as the country looks ahead to future elections. The outcome of this invitation will be closely watched, as it holds significant implications for the balance of power not just in Kano, but in Nigeria's broader political arena.
