by Mo Hanif
Amid growing speculation over a possible defection by Kano State Governor to the All Progressives Congress (APC), former Kano governor and national leader of the (NNPP), , has again outlined conditions under which he could consider returning to the ruling party.
Kwankwaso, who is widely regarded as the political benefactor of Governor Yusuf and leader of the influential Kwankwasiyya movement, said any decision to rejoin the (APC) would not be taken lightly or based on personal ambition. He stressed that such a move must be guided by clear political agreements, mutual respect, and defined roles that would protect the interests of his supporters and political structure.
According to him, previous political realignments in Nigeria have shown that defecting without firm guarantees often leads to marginalisation. He insisted that any future alliance must recognise his political relevance, the sacrifices of his followers, and the need for inclusive decision-making within the party.
The renewed comments come at a time when rumours are rife that Governor Yusuf may be weighing a move to the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections. Although neither the governor nor the APC leadership has officially confirmed such plans, the speculation has unsettled NNPP supporters in Kano, where the party currently controls the state government.
Sources within the NNPP suggest that the possibility of Governor Yusuf defecting without the full backing of Kwankwaso could deepen internal divisions within the party. Some loyalists believe the strength of the NNPP in Kano is tied directly to Kwankwaso’s influence and the Kwankwasiyya political base, while others argue that political pragmatism ahead of 2027 may drive new alliances.
Kwankwaso, who was the NNPP’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has in the past ruled out joining any party where he would be treated as a political outsider. Analysts say his latest stance is part of a broader strategy to retain bargaining power as political alignments intensify nationwide ahead of the next election cycle.
For now, both the NNPP and APC continue to watch developments in Kano closely, as any defection by the governor or a potential return of Kwankwaso to the ruling party could significantly reshape the political landscape in the state and beyond.