Kano State is currently embroiled in a significant political crisis following intense speculation that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf is planning to defect from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This potential move has reportedly triggered a major rift within the NNPP, pitting supporters of the governor against loyalists of the party's national leader and founder of the Kwankwasiyya movement, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
NNPP Leadership Firmly Rejects Defection Plans
In a strong response to the unfolding drama, the NNPP leadership at both the state and national levels has publicly denounced any planned defection to the APC. The Kano State Chairman of the party, Hashim Suleiman Dungurawa, issued a press statement on December 29, 2025, clarifying the party's official position.
Dungurawa stated that the party is fully aware of the developments involving some individuals in Kano who intend to cross over to the APC. He made it unequivocally clear that the state chapter, the national body, and Senator Kwankwaso himself do not support or approve of such a move.
"We did everything within our power to persuade them to be patient and not defect to the APC, because of our responsibility to them and our responsibility to the people of Kano," Dungurawa explained, highlighting the party's efforts to maintain unity.
Appeals for Unity and Denial of Internal Conflict
The NNPP chairman issued a passionate appeal to Governor Yusuf and others reportedly considering leaving the party. He urged them to reconsider for the sake of the party they helped to build and the electorate that supports them.
"On behalf of all of us collectively, we once again appeal to them, for the sake of Allah and the Prophet, not to leave this party and not to defect to the party that we have opposed and which the masses and other voters have rejected," Dungurawa added.
He also firmly rejected any claims that party officials are trying to create a conflict between Governor Yusuf and Senator Kwankwaso, challenging anyone with evidence to present it. Dungurawa called on residents of Kano State to remain calm and go about their lawful activities, warning party members against engaging with documents circulated by "mischief makers."
Government Acknowledges Internal Party Issues
Reacting to the situation, the Director General of Media and Publicity for the Kano State Government, Sanusi Bature, acknowledged that disagreements exist within the NNPP. However, he declined to comment specifically on the reported defection plans.
"Yes, there are issues within the party, and we are aware of the disagreements," Bature confirmed. "However, I cannot speak on any matter relating to defection at this time."
He added that the NNPP leadership is handling the matter internally and advised the public to avoid speculation. The crisis comes at a critical time as political realignments ahead of future elections continue to shape the volatile political landscape of Kano State, a key battleground in Nigerian politics.
