![Popular Small-Size Actress Aunty Ajara Dies After Liver Illness [VIDEO]](https://thepunchng.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/20241109_125042-75x75.jpg)
Fresh political tension has gripped Kano State following reports that Governor Abba Yusuf may defect from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a move strongly opposed by the party’s leadership and its national leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
The alleged plan has triggered internal discord within the NNPP, pitting supporters of the governor against loyalists of the Kwankwasiyya movement founded by Kwankwaso.
NNPP Leadership Rejects Defection Reports
In a press statement issued on behalf of the NNPP at both the state and national levels, the party said it was fully aware of the unfolding political developments in Kano and categorically rejected any move to the APC.
“We are aware of the developments happening here in Kano State concerning some individuals who intend to defect to the APC,” said the NNPP Kano State Chairman, Hon. Hashim Suleiman Dungurawa.
“I want to make it clear that the Kano State party, the national party, and our national leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, along with other party leaders, do not approve of what is happening.”
Dungurawa disclosed that the party had made repeated efforts to persuade those involved to remain within the NNPP for the sake of political stability and public interest.
“We did everything within our power to persuade them to be patient and not defect to the APC, because of our responsibility to them and to the people of Kano State,” he said.
Appeal to Governor, Warning to Party Members
The NNPP chairman appealed directly to the governor and others allegedly planning to defect to reconsider their decision.
“On behalf of all of us collectively, we once again appeal to them, for the sake of Allah and the Prophet, not to leave this party and not to defect to the party we have opposed and which the masses and voters have rejected,” Dungurawa stated.
He also dismissed allegations that some NNPP officials were attempting to pit Governor Yusuf against Senator Kwankwaso.
“We have never put anyone against our leader, and if anyone has evidence to the contrary, they should present it,” he said.
Dungurawa urged Kano residents to remain calm and continue their lawful activities, while cautioning party members against signing documents allegedly being circulated by what he described as “mischief makers.”
Party Confirms Internal Rift
Reacting to the controversy, the NNPP Director-General of Media and Publicity, Sanusi Bature, confirmed that internal disagreements exist within the party but declined to comment on the alleged defection.
“Yes, there are issues within the party, and we are aware of the disagreements,” Bature said.
“However, I cannot speak on any matter relating to defection at this time.”
He added that the NNPP leadership was addressing the matter internally and urged the public to avoid speculation.
Implications for Kano Politics
Dungurawa concluded by calling on Kano residents and Nigerians nationwide to continue supporting the NNPP and its national leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, ahead of future political engagements.
The unfolding crisis is expected to significantly shape Kano’s political landscape as parties realign ahead of upcoming elections.
