Former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has arrived back in Nigeria, setting the stage for high-stakes political manoeuvres in Kano State. His return comes amid swirling reports of a potential defection by the state's New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, to the ruling APC.
Ganduje's Return and Planned Consultations
Dr Ganduje touched down at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on Saturday, January 11, 2026. His flight, operated by Emirates Airline, landed at approximately 4:30 p.m. local time. This information was confirmed in an official statement released by his Chief of Staff, Muhammad Garba.
The former governor had spent several weeks on vacation in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Following his arrival in Lagos, Ganduje was scheduled to proceed to the nation's capital, Abuja. Garba stated that his principal's immediate agenda involves a series of consultations and stakeholders' meetings. These engagements are specifically focused on the recent political developments unfolding in Kano State.
Focus on Kano's Political Landscape
The planned meetings are expected to involve key party leaders and other critical stakeholders. The primary objective is to review the evolving political situation and to strengthen internal cohesion within the APC's ranks in Kano. According to his aide, these consultations reflect Ganduje's commitment to inclusive dialogue and constructive engagement within the party, particularly in his home state where political tensions are high.
Furthermore, Ganduje is also expected to participate in the APC's ongoing nationwide electronic membership registration, or e-registration, exercise. This digital initiative was introduced during his tenure as the party's national chairman. The statement emphasised that the former governor remains dedicated to strengthening party structures and promoting democratic consolidation within the APC.
Imminent Defections Reshape Kano Politics
Ganduje's strategic return and planned talks are directly linked to the major political realignment reportedly on the horizon. The most significant development is the anticipated defection of the sitting Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, from the NNPP to the APC. Such a move would dramatically alter the political balance of power in the important northern state.
In a related development, the Kano State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Mustapha Kwankwaso, is set to vacate his office. Mustapha is the eldest son of former state governor and national leader of the NNPP, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. His planned resignation is seen as a precursor to the governor's own defection, signalling a major crack within the NNPP's structure in its strongest base.
These unfolding events mark a critical moment in Kano's political history, with Ganduje positioned at the centre of efforts to welcome defectors and consolidate the APC's influence in the state ahead of future electoral contests.
