By Chidinma Iroegbu
Kano State politics has witnessed a major shake-up following the defection of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The move, widely described as one of the most consequential political shifts in the state’s recent history, has altered existing power structures and sparked intense political debate.
Governor Yusuf, popularly known as Abba Gida-Gida, formally joined the APC on January 26, 2026, becoming the only NNPP governor to abandon the party since its emergence.
His defection brought an end to his long-standing political alliance with Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, leader of the NNPP and the Kwankwasiyya Movement, who has condemned the move as a betrayal of trust and party loyalty.
The development has once again highlighted Kano’s history of fierce political rivalry, where disagreements among influential political figures have often resulted in party splits and realignments across different republics.
Explaining his decision, Governor Yusuf said aligning Kano State with the party at the centre would accelerate development, improve infrastructure delivery and enhance social welfare programmes for residents.
He insisted that the defection was driven by the collective interest of the people of Kano State rather than personal political ambition.
Sources revealed that the governor’s decision followed a series of high-level consultations, including a strategic meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa.
The defection was accompanied by strong political backing, with several National Assembly members, a majority of Kano State House of Assembly lawmakers and all local government chairmen reportedly pledging support
Within the APC, leading governorship aspirants, including Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, have stepped down to endorse Yusuf’s re-election bid, as political observers say the unfolding realignment will significantly shape Kano’s political future ahead of the 2027 general elections.