Political Tensions Escalate as Kano Governor Abba Yusuf Sacks Kwankwaso's Ally
Kano State politics has entered a period of significant turmoil following a dramatic series of events that have reshaped political alliances and deepened existing divisions. Governor Abba Yusuf has taken the decisive step of dismissing his Special Adviser on Political Matters, Sunusi Surajo, a key ally of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. This action comes barely twenty-four hours after the governor publicly announced his resignation from the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP), creating a political earthquake across the state.
Immediate Fallout from the Dismissal
The removal of Sunusi Surajo from his advisory position has sent shockwaves through Kano's political landscape. Surajo, who previously served as chairman of Madobi Local Government Area, was considered a prominent figure within the Kwankwasiyya political structure. His replacement by a former aide to ex-governor and former APC national chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, has been interpreted by political analysts as a clear indication of Governor Yusuf's shifting political alignment.
Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, the governor's spokesperson, confirmed the dismissal through a social media announcement, though no official explanation was provided for Surajo's removal. This development has intensified the political tremor already shaking the state government, with observers noting that the action represents more than a simple personnel change.
Governor's NNPP Resignation Triggers Political Realignment
The dismissal forms part of a broader political recalibration following Governor Yusuf's exit from the NNPP. In his resignation letter addressed to the chairman of Diso-Chiranchi Ward in Gwale Local Government Area, the governor cited internal instability and persistent leadership disputes within the party as primary reasons for his departure.
"The NNPP has been engulfed by internal disagreements and legal battles that continue to undermine its unity across the country," Governor Yusuf stated. "These issues have weakened cohesion and distracted the party from its responsibility to the people. My decision was taken to protect the collective interest of Kano residents."
Sources within Government House have revealed that the governor's resignation has prompted a comprehensive review of political appointments and alliances, with the dismissal of Surajo representing just one element of this wider strategic shift.
Mass Defections Fracture Kwankwasiyya Movement
The governor's departure from the NNPP has triggered a wave of defections that has significantly altered the political composition of Kano State. Reports confirm that forty-four local government chairmen, twenty-two members of the Kano State House of Assembly, and eight federal legislators have publicly declared their loyalty to Governor Yusuf following his resignation.
However, these defections have created deep fractures within the Kwankwasiyya movement, leaving the state cabinet visibly divided. A senior political source has disclosed that Deputy Governor Aminu Abdulssalam Gwarzo has chosen to remain aligned with Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and will not defect alongside the governor.
Observers have noted Gwarzo's absence from three successive official engagements at Government House, while confirming his attendance at several meetings held at Kwankwaso's residence along Miller Road in Kano. Several commissioners and top government officials have also refused to leave the NNPP, including Dr. Yusuf Kofar-Mata (Science and Technology), Nasiru Garo (Special Duties), Mustapha Kwankwaso (Sports), AVM Ibrahim Umar (retd.) (Internal Security), Adamu Kibiya (Humanitarian Affairs), and Amina Abdullahi (Women Affairs).
Kwankwaso Responds with Rallying Cry for 2027 Elections
Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has responded to these developments by rallying his loyal supporters and urging them to prepare for an intense political contest ahead of the 2027 general elections. Addressing supporters in Kano, the NNPP national leader encouraged his followers to remain steadfast despite the ongoing defections.
"Raising funds for a movement is not easy, but we are proud of your loyalty," Kwankwaso declared. "We need people who are committed to progressive ideals, not those who can be swayed by money. If not for the perseverance of people like you, even I could have been compromised. The struggle for freedom is never easy, but it is worth sustaining."
In a particularly emotional response to Governor Yusuf's departure from the NNPP, Senator Kwankwaso has designated January 23 as "World Betrayal Day," referencing social media reactions that described the governor's exit as a betrayal of the political movement that brought him to office. The senator announced this designation while addressing supporters at his Miller Road residence, linking the concept to the widespread perception of betrayal following the governor's actions.
Political Implications and Future Outlook
The simultaneous resignation from the NNPP and dismissal of a key Kwankwaso ally represents a major turning point in Kano State politics. Political analysts suggest that Governor Yusuf's actions signal a potential realignment toward different political forces ahead of the 2027 elections, with the replacement of Surajo with a Ganduje associate particularly noteworthy.
The division within the Kwankwasiyya movement now presents significant challenges for both factions. Governor Yusuf must consolidate his new political base while maintaining governance effectiveness, while Senator Kwankwaso faces the task of rebuilding his political structure following the departure of key allies.
As Kano politics enters this new phase of uncertainty and realignment, all eyes remain on how these developments will shape the political landscape not just in the state, but potentially across northern Nigeria as the 2027 elections approach. The coming months are likely to see further political maneuvers as both factions seek to strengthen their positions and appeal to the electorate.
