Kabiru Adamu Abdullahi, a prominent ally of Kwankwasiyya movement leader and Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) Vice-Presidential candidate Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has formally defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), ending a political relationship spanning 29 years. Abdullahi, who had previously sworn on the Qur'an to affirm his loyalty to Kwankwaso, announced his exit in a resignation letter submitted to the ward party chairman of Kofar Ruwa Ward in Dala Local Government Area.
Reasons for the Defection
In his resignation letter, Abdullahi cited "failed promises" within the NDC as the primary reason for his departure. He acknowledged the party for giving him the opportunity to serve but expressed that he had reached the limit of his patience after years of unmet expectations.
"I have been with Kwankwaso for 29 years but have only benefited from failed promises. I will go to where I will be respected more," Abdullahi said. He added that he would now support President Bola Tinubu's re-election campaign under the APC banner.
Impact on the NDC Ahead of 2027
Abdullahi's defection adds to the political pressures facing the NDC as it prepares for the 2027 general elections. Kwankwaso was ratified as the party's presidential candidate on May 29, 2026, having resigned from the African Democratic Congress earlier that month on May 2, 2026. Losing a loyalist of Abdullahi's standing, particularly one who publicly affirmed his commitment through a Qur'anic oath, signals growing discontent within the movement's inner circle.
This defection follows a similar move by Senator Rufai Hanga, who resigned from the NDC on August 3, 2026, to join the APC ahead of the 2027 elections. Hanga's exit marked one of the party's most significant political shake-ups since Kwankwaso joined the party in May 2026.
What This Means for the APC
Abdullahi's switch to the APC strengthens the ruling party's ranks in Kano State, a key political battleground. His support for President Tinubu's re-election campaign adds to the APC's momentum as it seeks to consolidate its position. The NDC, meanwhile, faces the challenge of retaining its core supporters amid these high-profile departures.
