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Kano Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf Resigns from NNPP Amid Speculation of APC Move.
Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has formally resigned his membership of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), ending weeks of speculation over his political future.
Ejes Gist News reports that the resignation, effective January 23, 2026, was communicated in a letter to the Chairman of Diso-Chiranchi Ward of the NNPP in Gwale Local Government Area.
Governor Yusuf cited persistent internal crises within the party and the need to safeguard the overall interests of Kano State as his reasons for leaving.
“In recent times, the party has been confronted with persistent internal challenges arising from leadership disagreements and ongoing legal processes, many of which are presently before the courts for judicial determination,” the governor stated. He added that these disputes have deepened divisions and weakened unity at both state and national levels.
Guided by Public Interest
The governor emphasized that his decision was made in the public interest, without any ill will. “After careful reflection, and without prejudice to the party’s capacity to resolve its internal challenges, I have concluded that my resignation is in the best interest of the people of Kano State,” Yusuf said. He thanked the NNPP for its support during his political journey since 2022 and reaffirmed his commitment to peace, unity, and the progress of Kano State.
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Governor Yusuf’s departure is reportedly accompanied by 21 members of the Kano State House of Assembly, eight members of the House of Representatives, and 44 Local Government chairmen. The NNPP Secretary of Diso-Chiranchi Ward, Hon. Kabiru Zubairu, confirmed receipt of the resignation and commended Yusuf for his governance achievements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and economic empowerment.
Speculation on Political Realignment
Although the governor has not officially announced his next political affiliation, strong speculation links him to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), following a recent meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Political analysts suggest that Yusuf’s exit could trigger a realignment in Kano State politics, potentially influencing voter loyalties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
NNPP’s Grassroots Strength and Kwankwaso Influence
The NNPP gained prominence in Kano during the 2023 general elections, with its presidential candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, winning a majority of local government areas in the state. Yusuf, who ran under the NNPP, secured 1,019,602 votes to defeat APC candidate Nasir Gawuna, who scored 890,705 votes. Kwankwaso’s strong grassroots network, the Kwankwasiyya Movement, has historically shaped Kano politics and provided the socio-political base for the party’s electoral successes.
Intra-Party Tensions
Reports of Yusuf’s potential defection to the APC in late 2025 had triggered internal disputes within the NNPP. Party leadership and Kwankwaso loyalists publicly opposed the move, warning members against abandoning the party. Security was tightened around the Kano Government House in anticipation of political developments, reflecting tensions between the governor and NNPP leadership.
Analysts note that Yusuf’s resignation represents a significant shift in Kano State’s political landscape. Should key figures and their supporters follow him into a new political platform, the move could reshape alliances and voter dynamics in the state ahead of future elections.
