Security has been tightened at the Kano State Government House amid growing speculation over a possible defection by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
On Monday, combined security personnel drawn from the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services were deployed to strategic points around the Government House. Access to the premises was subject to strict security checks, with operatives enforcing rigorous identification procedures for visitors and staff.
The heightened security presence comes against the backdrop of rumors suggesting that Governor Yusuf may be considering a political defection. The situation has generated tension within the state’s political space, particularly amid reports of a disagreement between the governor and his long-time political mentor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
Kwankwaso, the national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party, has publicly opposed any alleged plan by the governor to defect to the All Progressives Congress. He has warned that such a move would destabilize the NNPP and weaken the Kwankwasiyya political movement, which has enjoyed strong grassroots support in Kano and beyond.
Despite the speculation, Governor Yusuf has denied the existence of any rift between himself and Kwankwaso. However, the crisis has reportedly spread within the NNPP, exposing cracks in the alliance between the two political figures.
In a press statement issued on behalf of the NNPP at both the state and national levels, the party said it was fully aware of the unfolding political developments in Kano and does not support any defection to the APC. The NNPP Kano State Chairman, Hashim Dungurawa, stated that the party leadership, including its national leader, does not approve of any move by party members to defect.
Kano remains one of Nigeria’s most politically significant states due to its large voter population and consistent influence on national electoral outcomes. Analysts note that any shift in political allegiance by the sitting governor, particularly one involving Kwankwaso’s political structure, could have far-reaching implications for future elections.
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