Former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has hailed the defection of Kano State Governor, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, to the ruling party as a major victory that marks a new era of unity and development in the state.
Speaking to BBC Hausa, Ganduje said both the APC and Governor Yusuf were pleased with the decision, noting that political rivalries in the state had been put to rest.
He added, “Issues surrounding party leadership will be addressed in due course. The current APC leadership structures are temporary and will soon be renewed through congresses.”
Ganduje further emphasised that the APC was focused on supporting the governor to succeed, describing the government’s success as a collective achievement for the party.
On concerns about party strategy and leadership arrangements following the governor’s defection, he said, “There is no written national directive yet, but such issues will not pose serious problems.”
He explained that traditionally, “The APC gives sitting governors the first right of refusal when it comes to seeking re-election, although this is not expressly stated in the party’s constitution.”
Speaking on the ultimate goal of governance, Ganduje said, “The aim is to deliver progress and improve the welfare of the people. The APC is ready to work with the governor to achieve this objective.”
He also addressed the relationship between the APC and the leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, noting that reconciliation remained possible.
Governor Yusuf formally defected from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the APC earlier this week, a move that has continued to generate reactions across Kano’s political landscape.
