Kano Women Affairs Commissioner Joins Governor Yusuf in APC Defection
In a significant political realignment, Hajiya Amina Sani, the Kano State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Children, and Persons with Special Needs, has officially defected from the New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This move aligns her with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, who recently switched parties, marking a pivotal shift in the state's political dynamics.
Embracing the 'Kano First' Ideology
Commissioner of Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, confirmed the defection in a statement issued on Sunday, February 1, 2026. He emphasized that Amina Sani, popularly known as Amina HOD for her strong principles, has now embraced the 'Kano First' ideology. This alignment aims to accelerate state development and foster peaceful coexistence among residents.
Waiya described the commissioner as a key figure in the Kwankwasiyya grassroots movement, noting that her defection represents a historic moment in Kano's political governance. "It has reawakened the political consciousness of the people, who are now choosing between the collective destiny of Kano and the interests of a few individuals," he stated.
Political Repercussions and Resignations
The defection follows Governor Yusuf's own move to the APC, which triggered a wave of resignations among commissioners and appointees loyal to Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. Key portfolios affected include:
- Youth and Sports
- Internal Security
- Special Duties
These exits highlight a deepening political fracture that could impact the governor's grassroots support while strengthening Kwankwaso's position ahead of future elections. The commissioner further explained that this movement is "practical, as the people of Kano have chosen to take their political destiny into their own hands, serving as a vehicle for positive change."
Broader Defection Trends in Kano
This development is part of a larger trend of political shifts in Kano State. Recently, 22 state lawmakers defected from the NNPP to the APC during a plenary session, a move that followed Governor Yusuf's resignation from the NNPP. The event was documented in a video shared on social media, underscoring the ongoing realignment within the state's political landscape.
The commissioner's defection is seen as a strategic move to reposition Kano politically, economically, and socially, aiming to elevate the state among its peers. As political consciousness grows among citizens, these changes reflect a broader narrative of collective decision-making versus individual interests in shaping Kano's future.