The political landscape in Kano State is witnessing heightened tension following swirling rumours that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf is planning to defect from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Kwankwaso's Stern Warning on Political Betrayal
In a decisive response, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the national leader of the NNPP and its 2023 presidential candidate, has finally addressed the reports. Speaking at a gathering at his residence, Kwankwaso delivered a pointed caution to any party members considering leaving the fold. He emphasised that history offers clear lessons, stating that no political betrayal has ever recorded lasting success.
In a viral video from the event on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, the former Kano governor declared, "I want to remind those who left us that nobody has betrayed us and succeeded." He indicated he was not surprised by the development but used the opportunity to warn that those who betray often face significant political setbacks.
APC's Open Invitation and Internal NNPP Crisis
The defection speculation gained credence after the Kano State chapter of the APC, led by former national chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, extended an open invitation to Governor Yusuf. The state APC chairman, Abdullahi Abbas, publicly asked the governor to feel free to join their party, a move that has reportedly deepened divisions within the NNPP.
Governor Yusuf, who was elected on the NNPP platform in the 2023 general elections, finds himself at the centre of this political storm. Kwankwaso pointed to the large turnout of supporters at his meeting as evidence that the NNPP retains strong grassroots backing in Kano, despite the manoeuvres of some political figures.
Mixed Reactions from Nigerians
The viral video of Kwankwaso's remarks has sparked a flurry of reactions from Nigerians online, revealing a spectrum of opinions:
- Carlo Gambino suggested strategic gameplay: "Kwankwaso is playing games. Abba is going to the APC as an advance team."
- Francis Ekha made a stark prediction: "If Abba Gida should join the APC, that will be the end of his political career as a governor. Kwankwoso owns Kano politics."
- Victor Ome expressed distrust, referencing a recent meeting between Kwankwaso and President Bola Tinubu: "This guy visited Tinubu the other day... It's all a game plan. Never trust him."
- Others, like Dyinze, theorised the rumours might be part of a grand strategy to infiltrate the APC.
The situation remains fluid, with the future allegiance of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf becoming a critical focal point in the evolving power dynamics of Kano and national politics. Kwankwaso's warning serves as a clear marker that any defection would not be taken lightly and could trigger a major realignment in the state's political structure.
