APC defection aims to accelerate state devt – Gov Yusuf

 

Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has defended his defection from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), insisting the decision was driven by the need to strategically align the state with the federal government to fast-track development.

Addressing thousands of supporters at the 2026 Grand Rally held at Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano on Monday, Governor Yusuf said Kano’s size and strategic importance made continued political disconnection from the centre unsustainable.

“Kano is too large and strategically important to remain politically disconnected from the federal government,” Yusuf said. “It is about placing Kano in a position where it can fully participate in national development and secure a better future for its citizens.”

He stressed that the move was not motivated by personal ambition but by a sense of responsibility to the people of Kano, adding that the state must actively engage in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“With the support of our great party and the cooperation of the Federal Government, Kano State is better positioned to move forward with confidence and stability,” he added.

The governor thanked Vice President Kashim Shettima, governors of Jigawa, Sokoto, Kaduna, Katsina, Borno, Yobe, and Plateau states, former APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, Kano APC Chairman Abdullahi Abbas, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, ALGON Chairperson Hajiya Sa’adatu Yushau Soja, Hon. Alasan Ado Doguwa, and other lawmakers for their support and attendance.

APC National Chairman Professor Nentawe Yilwatda praised the massive turnout, saying: “The turnout today demonstrates that Kano APC members are united, enthusiastic, and committed to advancing the party’s agenda and supporting President Tinubu’s vision.”

Ganduje, Barau Jibrin, Abdullahi Abbas, and other leaders pledged full loyalty, declaring: “We pledge 100 percent loyalty and cooperation to the governor and the APC in Kano.”

The rally, attended by thousands, was widely seen as a show of strength and unity, signalling a new political chapter for Kano as it seeks greater integration into national governance.

Recall that Governor Yusuf resigned from the NNPP in January 2026, citing “deepening internal crises” and “prolonged leadership disputes” after a visit to President Tinubu in Abuja. His defection is part of a broader trend, with several PDP-elected governors—including Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Peter Mbah (Enugu), Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Agbu Kefas (Taraba), Siminalayi Fubara (Rivers), and Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau)—having joined the APC in recent months.