Kano APC Warns Against ‘Forced Marriage’ Of Defection

Kano APC Warns Against ‘Forced Marriage’ Of Defection

Talks around a possible defection by Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to the All Progressives Congress have stirred unease within the party, with some APC leaders warning that forcing political allies together could create lasting trouble.

The concerns centre on moves by the Presidency to bring both the governor and his long-time political mentor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, into the ruling party.

The situation is unfolding in Kano, where APC stakeholders are split over the shape of the proposed defection. While many party figures say they are open to welcoming Governor Yusuf, resistance has grown over the idea of Kwankwaso joining at the same time.

Party insiders fear his entry could upset existing structures and weaken long-standing members.

The tension stems from ongoing discussions involving President Bola Tinubu, who recently met Governor Yusuf in Abuja. Plans are also underway for a possible meeting between the president and Kwankwaso, a move believed to be aimed at collapsing the New Nigeria Peoples Party structure in Kano and strengthening the APC ahead of future elections.

Party leaders opposing the joint defection argue that bringing in Kwankwaso alongside the sitting governor could sideline current APC leaders in the state.

They worry that his influence and leadership style may tilt power away from those who built the party locally, creating internal friction rather than unity.

Despite the pushback, the Presidency is said to favour a combined move, believing it would reshape Kano politics and boost the APC’s standing in the North-West.

As debates intensify within the party, observers say how the defection is handled could shape not just Kano’s political future, but wider alignments ahead of the 2027 elections.