Security has been significantly reinforced at the Kano State Government House following widespread speculation that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf may be considering a defection from his party.
On Monday, a heavy security presence was observed at the main entrance of the Government House, with combined operatives from the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) deployed to key strategic points. Access into the complex was subjected to heightened scrutiny, as visitors underwent rigorous identification checks by security personnel.
Speculation Over Rift With Kwankwaso
The intensified security measures come amid growing political tension linked to rumours of a rift between Governor Yusuf and his long-time political mentor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. Kwankwaso, the national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), has openly opposed reports suggesting Yusuf’s possible defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to party sources, Kwankwaso has warned that such a move would severely destabilise the NNPP and weaken the influential Kwankwasiyya political movement. However, Governor Yusuf has firmly denied the existence of any disagreement between himself and Kwankwaso, insisting that their relationship remains intact.
Despite the governor’s denial, the controversy has spilled into the NNPP, revealing visible strains within the party and casting a shadow over the once-solid alliance between the two leaders.
NNPP Rejects Defection Moves
In a strongly worded statement issued on behalf of the NNPP at both the Kano State and national levels, the party distanced itself from any planned defection to the APC.
“We are fully aware of the political developments unfolding in Kano State involving certain individuals who intend to defect to the APC,” said the NNPP Kano State Chairman, Hashim Dungurawa.
“Let me make it clear that the Kano State chapter, the national leadership of the party, and our national leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, do not support or approve of such actions.”
Kano’s Strategic Political Weight
Kano remains one of Nigeria’s most politically significant states, boasting one of the largest voter populations in the country. Historically, the state has delivered millions of votes in general elections, often playing a decisive role in shaping national political outcomes.
Any shift in political allegiance by the sitting governor — particularly one involving Senator Kwankwaso, whose influence extends deep into grassroots politics — could dramatically reshape the state’s political landscape and alter the broader national electoral equation.
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