Abba_Yusuf.webp
The Digest:

Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has declared that his defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) is aimed at positioning the state at the heart of national decision-making and securing a better future for citizens. Speaking at the APC 'grand rally' at Sani Abacha Stadium on Monday, Yusuf told thousands of supporters that Kano can no longer be sidelined from the centre. He framed the decision as one of responsibility, enabling engagement with President Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda and unlocking accelerated development through stronger federal ties. Yusuf, who resigned from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in January amid internal crises, was formally received into APC by Vice-President Kashim Shettima. Governors from seven northern states and APC national chairman Nentawe Yilwatda attended the rally.

Key Points:
  • Yusuf's defection strengthens APC's grip on Nigeria's most populous northern state ahead of 2027.
  • It delivers a significant political blow to the NNPP and opposition cohesion in the North-West.
  • Kano gains potential federal patronage, while APC consolidates regional dominance.
  • This signals the ruling party's aggressive strategy to absorb opposition governors.
  • The timing, with massive rally attendance, demonstrates APC's organisational strength.

Yusuf's defection to APC positions Kano for stronger federal ties, while significantly weakening the NNPP's presence in the North-West.

Sources: TheCable, APC Grand Rally