Kano Politics Boils as Assembly Supports Yusuf’s Defection, Kwankwaso Pushes Kicks
Kano Politics Boils as Assembly Supports Yusuf’s Defection, Kwankwaso Pushes Kicks
The political disagreement between former Kano State governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has escalated following the Kano State House of Assembly’s endorsement of Yusuf’s proposed defection from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
On Friday, lawmakers in the state assembly threw their weight behind the governor’s planned move, arguing that lingering internal disputes and legal battles within the NNPP could threaten the governor’s mandate and the political future of elected officials in the state.
The House Majority Leader, Lawan Hussaini, said the decision was taken to avoid potential legal complications similar to what occurred in Zamfara State, where court rulings nullified the APC’s victories due to irregular party nominations.
According to Hussaini, the NNPP is currently enmeshed in leadership crises and multiple court cases, creating uncertainty around its legitimacy and electoral processes. He added that an existing court judgment recognising a particular faction of the party further complicates matters.
“We cannot afford to remain in a party that is battling internal leadership disputes and endless litigation,” he said. “Staying in such a situation could expose the governor and lawmakers to serious legal risks.”
Governor Yusuf, who reportedly obtained his APC membership card from his ward, is expected to formally announce his defection on January 12. Sources say his decision is backed by most NNPP lawmakers and several local government chairmen across the state.
However, the development has widened the crack between Yusuf and Kwankwaso, leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, who is said to feel increasingly sidelined in key political decisions within the state.
Addressing supporters who remain loyal to him, Kwankwaso criticised those who have defected or are planning to do so insisting they must compensate the movement for the resources and effort invested in their political rise.
He argued that political defections are rarely without material incentives, claiming that those leaving the party had likely benefited financially.
Kwankwaso also warned supporters against being influenced by what he described as temporary rewards, noting that many politicians later regret switching allegiances.
The former governor further cautioned that betrayal in politics carries long-term consequences, stressing that such actions often leave lasting reputational damage that extends beyond individuals to their families.
Despite the opposition from Kwankwaso, Governor Yusuf has maintained that his decision to defect is based on consultations with voters and party stakeholders, insisting it is within his constitutional and political rights.
