NNPP Faction Demands Formal Resignation from Kano Governor Ahead of APC Defection
In a significant political development in Kano State, the factional chairman of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Mas'ud Eljibril, has issued a direct ultimatum to Governor Abba Yusuf. Eljibril has called on the governor to formally tender his resignation to what he describes as the legally recognised NNPP before making any move to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Court Judgments Cited as Basis for Legitimacy Claim
During a press conference held in Kano on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, Eljibril presented court judgments to journalists that reportedly affirm his faction as the legitimate and bona fide NNPP in Nigeria. He emphasized that Governor Yusuf remains a bonafide member of the NNPP faction identified by its basket and fruits logo, and any departure must follow proper party procedures.
"Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf is still a bonafide member of the NNPP that has a basket with fruits as its logo," Eljibril stated firmly. "We are calling on INEC to respect the judgements of all the courts that were delivered last year on this issue."
Legal and Political Consequences Highlighted
Eljibril warned that failure to submit a formal resignation through the legitimate NNPP channels could have significant consequences for Governor Yusuf in the future. He referenced three court rulings that have so far supported his faction's position and suggested that the final judgment from the Supreme Court could further solidify their standing.
"If he wants to leave, he has the legal right to leave, but he has to formally tender his resignation to the party, which we are yet to receive formally," Eljibril explained. "We are still waiting for his formal resignation from our party. To be a member of any political party is an individual decision. If he decided to leave the party, it's his choice but he has to do that according to the rules and regulations of the party."
Deepening Internal Conflict Within NNPP
The demand for resignation comes amid deepening internal conflicts within the NNPP as factions clash over leadership positions ahead of the 2027 elections. Another faction of the party, identified by its books logo, is reportedly experiencing its own crisis with two Kwankwasiyya Movement members battling for the chairmanship position.
This internal turmoil has created a complex political landscape in Kano State, with Governor Yusuf caught between party loyalty and potential defection to the ruling APC.
Presidential Meeting Fuels Defection Speculation
Adding fuel to the speculation about Governor Yusuf's political future, President Bola Tinubu hosted the Kano governor at the presidential villa in Abuja on Monday, January 19, 2026. Governor Yusuf was spotted entering the villa wearing his traditional white agbada and red cap at approximately 4:10 pm.
Following the meeting, Governor Yusuf described the engagement as a "strategic discussion" focused on several critical areas:
- Security challenges facing Kano State
- Infrastructure development initiatives
- Strengthening partnership between Kano and the federal government
The governor specifically cited the recent killing of a housewife and her children as "deeply disturbing" and called for urgent federal intervention to protect lives and property in Kano State.
Political Implications for 2027 Elections
This developing situation has significant implications for the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections. The potential defection of a sitting governor from an opposition party to the ruling APC could reshape political alliances and strategies in Nigeria's most populous state.
The NNPP's insistence on proper resignation procedures highlights the importance of following constitutional and party guidelines in political transitions. As the situation continues to unfold, all eyes remain on Governor Yusuf's next move and how it will affect both his political career and the broader political dynamics in northern Nigeria.
