The New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) has lost its only controlled state as Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), joining a growing number of state governors realigning ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The move has triggered intense political reactions, with NNPP leader and former governor Rabiu Kwankwaso describing January 23, 2026—the day Yusuf formally joined APC—as a “day of betrayal.” Kwankwaso lamented the defection, saying it marked a serious breach of trust and loyalty within the party.
“Today, as the leader of this movement, I declare the 23rd of January as Betrayal Day,” Kwankwaso said, adding that the defection should be recorded in history as a cautionary tale of disloyalty.
Reasons Behind the Defection
In his resignation letter, Governor Yusuf cited persistent internal crisis, unresolved leadership disputes, prolonged court cases, and deep divisions within NNPP as reasons for leaving. He insisted that remaining in the party no longer served the best interest of Kano State.
The APC welcomed Yusuf, with state party officials highlighting the party’s governance track record under the Renewed Hope Agenda and insisting the defection was aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s political trajectory.
NNPP Reacts to Defection
NNPP leaders, including Board of Trustees Secretary Buba Galadima and Youth Leader Auwal Musa Muhammad, condemned the defection as politically motivated and in personal interest, not for the benefit of Kano residents.
Galadima compared Yusuf’s decision to historic betrayals, referencing Judas’ betrayal of Jesus and Brutus’ betrayal of Caesar, warning that history may not forgive disloyalty. Meanwhile, Muhammad reaffirmed the party’s loyalty to Senator Kwankwaso, emphasizing that NNPP’s structure, ideology, and grassroots strength remain intact.
Former presidential candidate and activist Peter Ameh predicted that Yusuf would struggle to win a second term in 2027, pointing to Kwankwaso’s enduring influence and the loyalty of the Kwankwasiyya movement.
APC Counters Criticism
APC officials, including Director of Publicity Bala Ibrahim, dismissed NNPP’s claims, arguing that Ganduje’s political backing historically produces victories, citing previous elections in Imo, Kogi, and Osun states. They maintained that Governor Yusuf’s performance and popular support would ensure his re-election prospects.
The Kano State Government echoed these sentiments, stating that electoral success rests on voters’ assessment of performance, trust, and credibility rather than allegiance to political godfathers.
Historical Context
NNPP’s National Publicity Secretary Ladipo Johnson reminded observers of similar defections in Kano’s political history, notably Alhaji Abubakar Rimi’s 1980s defection from the PRP to the NPP, which resulted in electoral defeat despite mass defections of party members.
Public Appearances
Both Kwankwaso and Yusuf recently visited Singer Market following a fire incident, highlighting their separate bases of support. Kwankwaso’s visit drew attention to the godfather’s lasting influence, while Yusuf pledged immediate government support to affected traders.
The unfolding political drama sets the stage for Kano’s 2027 gubernatorial election, with loyalty, performance, and party structure emerging as key factors in the contest.
