Just In: Kano Gov Abba Yusuf joins APC following his exit from NNPP

Abba Yusuf, the governor of Kano State, has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), marking a significant realignment in the state’s political landscape.

Yusuf announced his defection on Monday during a high-profile event at the Coronation Hall of the Kano State Government House. He said the move was taken “in the best interest of the people of Kano State,” citing the need to align the state more closely with national political developments.

The defection ceremony was attended by top APC figures, including Abdullahi Ganduje, former APC national chairman, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, and Senator Kawu Sumaila. Also present were members of the Kano State Executive Council, party stakeholders, and senior government officials.

Yusuf’s move is expected to have far-reaching implications for Kano politics ahead of future elections, strengthening the APC’s presence in one of Nigeria’s most politically influential states.

The Informant246 had earlier reported that the Governor had formally resigned from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), blaming deepening internal crises and protracted leadership disputes rocking the party.

The governor’s decision was announced on Friday in a statement by his spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa. According to the statement, Yusuf communicated his resignation in a letter addressed to the NNPP Chairman of Diso-Chiranchi Ward, Gwale Local Government Area, with effect from January 25, 2026.

In the letter, the governor expressed gratitude to the party for offering him a political platform and supporting his political journey since 2022.

“I remain sincerely appreciative of the opportunity given to me by the party, its leadership and members across Kano State, as well as the support, goodwill and cooperation extended to me during my time in the party,” Yusuf said.

However, he noted that persistent leadership disagreements and ongoing legal battles—many of which are currently before the courts—have continued to destabilise the party at both state and national levels.

According to him, the unresolved disputes have led to growing disenfranchisement among members, deepening divisions and weakening internal cohesion.

“The resulting cracks appear increasingly irreconcilable and have generated uncertainty at both state and national levels,” the governor stated.

Yusuf said his decision followed careful reflection and was taken in the best interest of Kano State, stressing that it was made in good faith and without bitterness. He reaffirmed his commitment to peace, unity and the development of the state.

The statement further disclosed that the governor’s resignation was accompanied by that of 21 members of the Kano State House of Assembly, eight members of the House of Representatives and 44 local government chairmen across the state.

Acknowledging receipt of the resignation letter, the NNPP Secretary of Diso-Chiranchi Ward, Hon. Kabiru Zubairu, commended Yusuf’s performance in office, describing him as one of the party’s most impactful governors.

He praised the governor’s achievements in infrastructure, urban renewal, health, education and economic empowerment, while admitting that the party has been grappling with lingering internal crises.