Rabiu Kwankwaso, national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), has dismissed recent reports suggesting he approved the alleged defection of Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speculation about Governor Yusuf’s move to the APC has intensified in recent days, fueled by social media posts and unverified reports claiming Kwankwaso had reversed his long-standing opposition.
Speaking through his media aide, Saifullahi Hassan, Kwankwaso described the reports as “entirely false and misleading,” emphasising that both he and the governor remain committed to the principles and vision of the NNPP.
“Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf was elected on the platform of the NNPP and continues to uphold the mandate given by the people of Kano State.
“At no point did Senator Kwankwaso endorse any alleged move to the APC. Any claim otherwise is a deliberate distortion of facts, ” he said.
NNPP officials urged the public and the media to rely only on verified information, warning against spreading unsubstantiated claims.
Party spokesperson Ladipo Johnson also condemned the reports, calling them “a shameful falsehood” and accusing defectors of twisting Kwankwaso’s words to mislead the public.
Johnson stressed that those seeking to leave the party should do so openly, without claiming the backing of Kwankwaso or misrepresenting party leadership.
He added that any such attempts would be “rejected by Nigerians in the 2027 elections.”
As of the time of filing, Governor Yusuf has not issued a personal response to the defection rumours.
Meanwhile, the political atmosphere in Kano remained tense, with supporters and stakeholders closely watching developments within both the NNPP and APC.
