Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, is reportedly finalising plans to defect from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a move expected to reshape the state’s political landscape.
Political sources disclosed that the defection, anticipated on January 6, 2026, could alter Kano’s political configuration, as Governor Yusuf is the only NNPP governor nationwide, and his exit would leave the party without state-level control.
The sources said the governor has intensified consultations with key political actors, including National Assembly members, Kano State House of Assembly lawmakers, and local government chairmen, ahead of APC congresses scheduled for February.
A source familiar with the matter said many NNPP lawmakers, including the Speaker of the State Assembly, Yusuf Falgore, have endorsed the governor’s plan.
“There are strong indications that most NNPP lawmakers in the House are willing to follow the governor,” the source said.
Political insiders said the realignment would affect the office of the deputy governor. An insider disclosed that Murtala Sule Garo, the 2023 NNPP deputy governorship candidate, was dropped in favour of Kabiru Alhassan Rurum.
“The decision was not taken lightly. Political realities, internal party pressure, and consultations across senatorial districts made it clear that a new political balance was required,” the source said.
The source added that APC heavyweights, in consultation with Governor Yusuf, agreed that Kano South Senatorial District should be strategically accommodated, a move that positioned Rurum ahead of Garo.
“Unlike Garo, Rurum enjoys the backing of several serving members of the Kano State House of Assembly and federal lawmakers. His long-standing relationships and inclusive political style make him a unifying figure,” the source said.
Rurum’s experience as a former Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly (2015–2017; 2018–2019) and current member of the House of Representatives for Rano/Kibiya/Bunkure Federal Constituency was also cited as a key factor.
“He enjoys strong grassroots support and has built relationships across party lines, giving him an edge in stabilising the party ahead of the 2027 elections,” the source said.
The source noted that some political office holders, including Deputy Governor Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, Kano Central Senator Rufai Sani Hanga, commissioners, and special advisers, will remain in the NNPP.
