Speculation surrounding the political future of Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has intensified following another postponement of his anticipated defection from the New Nigeria Peoples Party to the All Progressives Congress.
Sources within the political circle of the governor disclosed that the planned defection, earlier fixed for January 5, 2026, has now been shifted to January 12. The delay, according to insiders, is linked to unresolved issues surrounding the loyalty of some NNPP legislators and key stakeholders who are yet to fully embrace the proposed move.
A close associate of the governor told journalists that although Yusuf was initially prepared to formally join the APC this week, he opted to seek more time during a meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima in Abuja on Friday. The governor reportedly expressed concern over the need to carry along remaining members of his political base before making the switch.
The source explained that Governor Yusuf is keen on consolidating support among state lawmakers and influential stakeholders who have not openly pledged allegiance to the APC, insisting that a united front is crucial before any formal announcement is made.
Kano, long regarded as a major power bloc in northern Nigerian politics, has been awash with rumours and intense political calculations over Yusuf’s possible exit from the NNPP. The development has sparked renewed tension within the party, particularly within the Kwankwasiyya movement that dominates the state’s political landscape.
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Reacting to reports of looming defections, NNPP National Publicity Secretary Ladipo Johnson dismissed claims that the party leadership had been informed of Yusuf’s plans. Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Johnson said the governor had not communicated any intention to defect to either the party’s National Working Committee or its National Executive Committee.
He also rejected speculation that the NNPP’s 2023 presidential candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, had approved or endorsed any move that would see Governor Yusuf and his supporters join the APC.
As political uncertainty continues to build in Kano, all eyes are now on January 12, a date that could reshape the balance of power in one of Nigeria’s most politically influential states.
