Governor Abba Yusuf Holds Talks with Senator Rufai Hanga in Abuja
Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf met with Senator Rufai Hanga at his Abuja office on Friday, July 17, 2026, as discussions intensified regarding Hanga's possible defection from the New Democratic Congress (NDC) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The meeting signals a significant political realignment in Kano State, with Governor Yusuf representing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) administration actively engaging a key senator from the NDC.
Senator Hanga is reportedly weighing his options after being sidelined for several critical positions within his current political circle. According to Nigerian Affairs Journal, a verified political affairs account on X (formerly Twitter) @NigAffairs, Hanga's dissatisfaction stems from being excluded from the Kano Central Senate ticket, losing out on the deputy governorship slot, and receiving no meaningful consideration for any position from NNPP leader Rabiu Kwankwaso. These setbacks have left Hanga politically marginalised within the party structure that once aligned him with Kwankwaso's Kwankwasiyya movement.
APC National Chairman's Earlier Visit
Earlier in the week, APC National Chairman Professor Nentawe Yilwatda led a delegation of Kano State APC executive committee members to Hanga's residence. This visit was part of a formal lobbying effort to persuade Hanga to join the ruling party. The APC's outreach underscores the strategic importance of Hanga's potential defection, which could bolster the party's influence in Kano State ahead of future elections.
Governor Abba Yusuf's involvement adds a notable dimension to the talks, as he leads the PDP administration in Kano. His engagement with Hanga suggests that the senator's political future is attracting broad attention across party lines, with both the ruling APC and the opposition PDP seeking to secure his allegiance.
Hanga's Political Marginalisation
According to reports, Hanga's consideration of defection is driven by his exclusion from key positions within the NDC and its allied parties. He missed out on the Kano Central Senate ticket and was not considered for the deputy governorship slot, despite his previous alignment with the Kwankwasiyya movement led by Rabiu Kwankwaso. The combination of these setbacks has reportedly left Hanga feeling politically sidelined, prompting him to explore alternatives with the APC.
Political analysts note that Hanga's defection could shift the balance of power in Kano State, where the APC, PDP, and NDC are vying for influence. The APC's efforts to woo Hanga are part of a broader strategy to strengthen its position in the region, while Governor Yusuf's participation in the talks indicates the PDP's interest in maintaining cross-party alliances.
Decision Expected in Coming Days
Senator Hanga is expected to announce a decision on his next political affiliation within the coming days. The outcome of these talks could have significant implications for the political landscape in Kano State and beyond, as parties prepare for upcoming elections. Observers will be watching closely to see whether Hanga will align with the APC or remain with his current political allies.
The meeting between Governor Yusuf and Senator Hanga, along with the earlier visit by the APC National Chairman, highlights the intense lobbying efforts underway. As the deadline for Hanga's decision approaches, all major parties are likely to continue their efforts to secure his support.
