2025

By Comrade Najeeb Nasir Ibrahim Kano Concern Citizens for Good Governance In politics, leadership is measured not by emotional loyalty to platforms, but by the courage to make strategic decisions that protect stability, relevance, and the collective interest of the people. Recent reports indicating that the Executive Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, may defect from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) should therefore be assessed with political maturity rather than sentiment. Kano State, Nigeria’s most populous state, occupies a critical position in national politics. Any political decision taken by its governor has implications far beyond party structures—it directly affects governance, development, and Kano’s bargaining power at the federal level. The Political Reality Behind the Decision Governor Yusuf emerged under the NNPP, largely supported by the Kwankwasiyya movement. However, evolving political realities—particularly internal divisions within the NNPP and increasing national realignments—have made the status quo difficult to sustain. The open invitation extended by the APC, reportedly backed by key party stakeholders, reflects recognition of Governor Yusuf’s political weight. More significantly, indications that a large majority of NNPP lawmakers in the Kano State House of Assembly may follow him suggest that this is not an isolated ambition but a calculated collective shift. Why the APC Alignment Is a Wise Decision First, alignment with the ruling party at the federal level enhances access to national resources, infrastructure funding, and policy collaboration. In Nigeria’s political system, federal-state harmony often determines the pace and scale of development. Kano cannot afford isolation at the centre. Second, internal crises within the NNPP have increasingly become a distraction to governance. Political stability is essential for effective leadership. A move to the APC could consolidate political forces, reduce factional conflicts, and allow the governor to focus squarely on service delivery. Read Also: 2025 in Memoriam: Nigerians and Global Icons Who Left a Lasting Legacy Beyond Betrayal: The Real Politics Behind Abba Kabir Yusuf’s Calculated Move Kano 2027: Deputy Governor Gwarzo, Kofar Mata Emerge as Potential NNPP Candidates Third, with the 2027 general elections approaching, political foresight is essential. The APC’s nationwide structure, institutional depth, and electoral machinery offer a broader and more sustainable platform than a fragmented opposition party. This positioning strengthens both the governor’s future prospects and Kano’s influence in national decision-making. Fourth, the move could contribute to building a wider northern political coalition—an important factor in shaping national leadership and policy outcomes in Nigeria. Responding to the Critics Critics frame the potential defection as a betrayal of loyalty to the Kwankwasiyya movement. While loyalty has its place, governance must always come before political sentiment. Political movements are vehicles for progress, not permanent constraints. Others raise concerns about ideological inconsistency. However, Nigerian politics has long been shaped by strategic realignments. What ultimately matters is not party branding, but the ability to deliver dividends of democracy to the people. Implications for Kano Politics This moment represents a turning point in Kano’s political history. It signals a possible fragmentation of the Kwankwasiyya structure, a redefinition of long-standing political alliances, and a reshaping of opposition strength within the state. More importantly, it underscores early preparations for the decisive 2027 elections. Conclusion Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s reported move toward the APC should be seen as a strategic and forward-looking political decision, driven by the need for stability, development, and relevance in national politics. While the decision carries political risks, leadership often demands difficult choices. History will ultimately judge this decision by its outcomes. If Kano secures greater development, stronger federal collaboration, and political stability, then this move will stand as a wise and timely decision made in the best interest of the people.

By Tijjani Sarki Good Governance Advocate & Public Policy Analyst Politics, when stripped of emotions and partisan sentiments, is ultimately about results. The reported decision of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to align Kano State with the ruling party at the centre should therefore be examined from the standpoint of peace, development, security, and long-term stability, not mere party loyalty. When viewed objectively, this move holds strong potential to reposition Kano for inclusive growth and internal harmony. Kano and the Cost of Political Isolation  Historically, Kano State has often found itself operating on a political wavelength different from that of the Federal Government. Across different eras PRP/NPN, ANPP/PDP, PDP/APC, NNPP/APC this misalignment has repeatedly come with consequences. Despite Kano’s enormous population, commercial dominance, and strategic importance in Northern Nigeria, the state has frequently complained of inadequate federal presence in key appointments, budgetary considerations, and flagship national projects. Political isolation, whether real or perceived, has a cost. It limits access, weakens bargaining power, and fuels a sense of exclusion. Over time, this environment also breeds internal political tension, deepens factional rivalries, and distracts leadership from governance to constant political firefighting. Defection as a Tool for Peace and Stability  One often overlooked advantage of aligning with the ruling party is the reduction of political hostility between the state and the centre. When a governor enjoys smoother access to federal institutions and decision-makers, it lowers the temperature of confrontation and creates room for cooperation. Read Also: Beyond Betrayal: The Real Politics Behind Abba Kabir Yusuf’s Calculated Move Kano 2027: Deputy Governor Gwarzo, Kofar Mata Emerge as Potential NNPP Candidates Tax Reforms on Track as Tinubu Dismisses Suspension Rumours For Kano, this has direct implications for internal peace and security. Federal-state synergy improves intelligence sharing, strengthens coordination between security agencies, and enhances federal responsiveness to security challenges. In a state as politically vibrant and densely populated as Kano, stability is not optional it is foundational. Furthermore, internal political crises thrive where there is uncertainty and fragmentation. A clearer political direction and stronger centre-state relationship can reduce elite conflict, calm rival power blocs, and allow the government to focus on governance rather than survival. Development Flows Where Access Exists Development does not occur in a vacuum. While competence and vision matter, access and influence often determine which states attract federal projects, pilot programmes, and strategic investments. Aligning with the ruling party gives Kano a louder voice at the national table a platform to push for – Improved federal road and rail infrastructure – Expanded security and social intervention programmes – Increased representation in federal boards and agencies – Stronger consideration in national budgetary planning Kano’s population size alone justifies greater federal attention. Its markets, agricultural value chains, and human capital make it a natural hub for industrial expansion. Political alignment enhances the state’s ability to convert these advantages into tangible outcomes. Security, Investment, and Social Calm Investors, both local and international, are drawn to environments of predictability and political stability. A Kano that enjoys harmonious relations with the Federal Government sends a strong signal of confidence. Improved security cooperation, reduced political friction, and steady policy direction all combine to create a more attractive investment climate, which in turn generates jobs and reduces social tension. Relative peace is not merely the absence of conflict, it is the presence of opportunity. When people see development projects, employment prospects, and functional governance, political agitation naturally declines. Kano Interest First the Real Test While the defection itself is strategic, its success will be measured by how well it is used. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf must ensure that this political repositioning is not reduced to symbolism. Kano’s interest must come first always. This means, Aggressively negotiating federal presence in Kano Demanding recognition proportionate to Kano’s contribution to national life Prioritising security, youth employment, and infrastructure Using access to power to unify, not polarise, the state Conclusion: Pragmatism Over Sentiment In politics, stubborn isolation rarely produces progress. Strategic alignment, when done with clarity of purpose, can unlock peace, development, and stability. Governor Yusuf’s move should therefore be seen as a pragmatic response to Kano’s historical experience, not a betrayal of ideals. If this opportunity is used wisely, Kano stands to gain relative peace, improved security coordination, stronger development outcomes, and a more stable political environment. The real task now is delivery. History will not judge the governor by the party he joined, but by what Kano gained because of the decision. Sarki write from Kano Can be reached via responsivecitizensinitiative@gmail.com

Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano Kano is once again at a political crossroads. As discussions intensify around Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s possible defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a section of the Kwankwasiyya movement particularly its loudest online defenders, has rushed to brand the move a “grand betrayal.” Such framing, however, is intellectually lazy and politically dishonest. What is unfolding is not betrayal; it is political survival, shaped by experience, history, and the harsh realities of power. Politics is not sustained by sentiment alone. Loyalty, while admirable, must never become a trap. Those condemning Governor Yusuf conveniently forget that his political mentor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, mastered the art of strategic realignment long before his protégé rose to prominence. Kwankwaso himself benefited from powerful political benefactors figures like the late Senator Hamisu Musa Kafin Agur, Alhaji Abubakar Rimi, and Alhaji Musa Gwadabe, before eventually asserting independence once power was secured. If independence was justified for the mentor, it cannot be criminal for the student. Governor Yusuf’s loyalty to Kwankwaso spans nearly four decades, dating back to their shared days in public service at WRECA. Over the years, Yusuf subordinated personal ambition for collective interest, including stepping aside from a Senatorial race in 2015 to accommodate Kwankwaso. He endured internal pressures, political interference, and prolonged uncertainty, yet remained steadfast. Such restraint is rare in Nigerian politics and speaks more to discipline than desperation. Even personal bonds reinforce this history. Read Also: Kano APC Reiterates Unity, Ready to Receive Governor Yusuf Kano 2027: Deputy Governor Gwarzo, Kofar Mata Emerge as Potential NNPP Candidates NNPP Appoints Acting Chairman in Kano Yusuf’s marriage into Kwankwaso’s extended family is not mere symbolism; it reflects years of trust, access, and shared political destiny. To suggest that such a figure would casually “betray” his mentor ignores the depth of sacrifice already made. At some point, leadership demands hard decisions especially when blind loyalty begins to threaten governance and stability. The reality today is that the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) is grappling with internal crises and legal vulnerabilities that cast serious doubt on its electoral viability ahead of 2027. Remaining on a platform that may struggle to secure a credible ticket is not loyalty, it is political suicide. Governor Yusuf, as a sitting governor with a mandate to protect, cannot afford that gamble. Attempts to persuade Kwankwaso toward a more stable political structure have reportedly failed, leaving survival as the only rational choice. In this light, Yusuf’s possible alignment with the APC should be viewed through a strategic lens, not an emotional one. Power is preserved through structure, stability, and alliances not nostalgia. This is where the APC’s readiness to receive him becomes significant. Under the fatherly leadership and reconciliatory influence of the immediate past National Chairman of the APC and Chairperson of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the party has positioned itself as a broad platform for political inclusion and continuity in Kano. As confirmed in a statement signed by the Kano State APC Chairman, Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas, the party’s openness to Governor Yusuf is rooted in unity, not conquest. It is a recognition that Kano’s political future requires cooperation, not endless factional warfare. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf is not abandoning a mentor; he is confronting reality. History rewards leaders who adapt, not those who cling to collapsing structures. In politics, survival is not treachery but a responsibility. And in Kano today, responsibility demands bold, if uncomfortable, choices.