Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf Officially Departs NNPP Amid Internal Strife
In a significant political development, Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has formally resigned from the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP), marking a pivotal shift in the state's political landscape. This move, which occurred on Friday, 23rd January 2026, is widely seen as a precursor to his anticipated defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Governor Yusuf's resignation underscores his determination to realign with the APC, a decision that has sent ripples through Nigeria's political sphere.
Mass Exodus of Political Figures Follows Governor's Lead
The governor's departure from the NNPP has triggered a substantial wave of resignations from key party members. A total of 21 state house of assembly members, including the Speaker, Rt. Honourable Ismail Falgore, have abandoned the NNPP to join Governor Yusuf in his new political journey. Additionally, eight out of the 21 federal lawmakers representing Kano and 44 local government council chairmen have also dumped the party, further weakening its structure in the state.
Reasons Behind the Resignation: Internal Crises and Public Interest
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, Governor Yusuf attributed his resignation to deepening internal crises within the NNPP and the need to safeguard the broader interests of Kano State's populace. The governor formally communicated his decision in a resignation letter addressed to the Chairman of Diso-Chiranchi Ward, NNPP, in Gwale Local Government Area, effective from Friday, 23rd January 2026.
Governor Yusuf expressed profound gratitude to the NNPP for the platform and support extended to him since his political engagement with the party began in 2022. He acknowledged the opportunity provided by the party's leadership and members across Kano State, as well as the goodwill and cooperation he received during his tenure.
However, he highlighted persistent internal disputes and legal challenges that have unsettled the party's structure nationwide. According to Yusuf, these disagreements have led to deep divisions and weakened cohesion within the NNPP, creating cracks that appear increasingly irreconcilable and generating uncertainty at both state and national levels.
Governor's Statement: A Decision Made in Good Faith
Governor Yusuf emphasized that his resignation followed careful reflection and was guided strictly by public interest considerations. He stated, "After careful reflection, and without prejudice to the party's capacity to resolve its internal challenges, I have come to the conclusion that my resignation is in the best interest of the people of Kano State." He further assured that the decision was taken in good faith, without any ill will, and with a continued commitment to peace, unity, and the progress of Kano State.
Party Acknowledgment and Praise for Governor's Performance
The resignation letter was acknowledged by the party secretary of Diso-Chiranchi Ward, Hon. Kabiru Zubairu, who commended Governor Yusuf for his laudable projects in infrastructure, urban renewal, health, education, and economic empowerment. Zubairu noted, "I wish to concur with His Excellency on the lingering crisis in our party, though we are trying our best to contain it, but we have no option than to accept the resignation of one and most performing governors of the NNPP." This acknowledgment highlights the governor's impactful tenure despite the political turmoil.
This mass defection signals a major realignment in Kano's politics, potentially reshaping future electoral dynamics and party loyalties in the region.
