Kwankwaso Rules Out Unconditional Return to APC Amid Kano Defection Speculation

Kwankwaso Rules Out Unconditional Return to APC Amid Kano Defection Speculation

Kano — Amid ongoing speculation over a possible defection of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to the All Progressives Congress (APC), NNPP leader Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has reiterated that he would not join the ruling party without clear terms and guarantees, reinforcing his commitment to the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and the Kwankwasiyya movement.

Kwankwaso made the statement on Wednesday at his Miller Road residence in Kano, while receiving leaders and supporters from Rano and Dawakin Tofa local government areas. His position was released through his media aide, Saifullahi Hassan, on his verified Facebook page.

“I will not go to the APC blindly. I must be clearly informed of my role, the direction of the journey, and the fate of our plans for the common people, including the position of our supporters and the Kano State Government. That is my stand,” Kwankwaso said.

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The remarks come amid rising political tension in Kano following reports that Governor Yusuf is considering a move to the APC, though the governor has consistently distanced himself from such claims, insisting he neither endorses nor supports any defection.

Kwankwaso criticized those he accused of instigating the alleged defection, arguing that transferring an electoral mandate won on the NNPP platform to a rival political camp—especially one linked to former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje—is deeply troubling. He emphasized that he is not part of, nor supports, any purported move.

While ruling out an unconditional return to the APC, Kwankwaso has previously indicated openness to political realignment if certain conditions are met, including consideration for presidential or vice-presidential positions in future political arrangements.

In a strategic move earlier this week, he instructed his supporters serving in Governor Yusuf’s administration to align with the governor if forced to choose sides, describing it as a shield against political pressure. He reiterated on Wednesday that his personal stance on the APC remains unchanged, stressing that his role and the future of the Kwankwasiyya movement must be clearly defined.

Deputy Governor Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo has also publicly aligned with Kwankwaso upon returning from a foreign trip, reinforcing perceptions of loyalty to the NNPP amid the defection rumours. Gwarzo was present at Wednesday’s Miller Road meeting, further signaling his support for Kwankwaso and the movement ahead of the 2027 elections.

Kwankwaso Rules Out Unconditional Return to APC Amid Kano Defection Speculation