Security has been heightened at the Kano State Government House as speculation grows over a possible political defection by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
Combined security personnel from the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) were stationed at strategic points, enforcing strict identification checks at the main entrance.
Access to the government house was tightly controlled to prevent any untoward incidents.
The tension coincided with reports of a disagreement between Governor Yusuf and his political mentor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).
Kwankwaso is said to strongly oppose Yusuf’s alleged plan to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), warning that such a move could destabilise the NNPP and undermine the Kwankwasiyya movement.
However, Yusuf has denied any rift with his mentor.
The NNPP, both at the Kano State and national level, reiterated its disapproval of defections to the APC.
Hashim Dungurawa, NNPP Kano State Chairman, stated:
“The Kano State party, the national party, and our national leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, together with other leaders, do not approve of what is happening.”
Kano is one of Nigeria’s most politically significant states due to its large voter population.
It often plays a decisive role in presidential elections, making any political realignment by the sitting governor a potential game-changer.
A defection by Yusuf could alter the state’s electoral dynamics, especially given Kwankwaso’s strong grassroots following.
Security remains tight as political observers watch closely for any developments in this unfolding situation.
