The national leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, has firmly denied reports claiming that he has endorsed the rumoured defection of Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speculation over Governor Yusuf’s possible switch from the NNPP to the ruling APC has intensified in recent days amid evolving political alignments in Kano State. The rumours gained further traction on Tuesday night following reports alleging that Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State, had reversed his long-held opposition to defections and quietly backed Yusuf’s purported move.
However, Kwankwaso swiftly distanced himself from the claims, describing them as false and misleading. In a statement issued on his behalf, his media aide, Saifullahi Hassan, categorically dismissed the reports, insisting that the NNPP leader remains steadfast in his commitment to the party and its principles.
Hassan stated that Kwankwaso has neither supported nor approved any plan by Governor Yusuf to defect to another political party. He emphasised that the governor was elected on the platform of the NNPP and continues to owe allegiance to the party and the electorate that voted him into office.
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“We wish to state unequivocally that this report is false, misleading, and entirely without factual basis,” the statement said. “Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf was elected Governor of Kano State on the platform of the NNPP and remains a member of the party, with an obligation to uphold the mandate freely given to him by the people.”
The statement further stressed that at no point did Kwankwaso endorse or express approval of any alleged move by the governor to the APC, describing reports to that effect as a deliberate distortion of facts.
“At no time did Senator Kwankwaso endorse, support, or express approval of any alleged move by Governor Yusuf to the APC. Any report suggesting otherwise is a deliberate misrepresentation of facts and should be treated with utmost scepticism,” Hassan added.
The NNPP leader also urged party members, supporters, and the general public to disregard the speculation and rely only on verified and credible sources for accurate information.
Political observers note that the rumours come amid heightened political manoeuvring in Kano, a key battleground state with significant influence in national politics. Despite the swirling speculations, neither Governor Yusuf nor the Kano State government has officially announced any intention to defect from the NNPP.
For now, Kwankwaso’s camp insists that the party remains united in Kano State and focused on delivering on its campaign promises, warning that unverified reports could undermine political stability and mislead the public.
