The Kano chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has commenced its online membership registration, amidst the prolonged delay of Governor Abba Yusuf’s defection to the party. Initially, the registration was scheduled to begin on January 15, but it was postponed following a request allegedly made by the governor. According to sources, Governor Yusuf had intended to defect to the APC on January 5, coinciding with his birthday, but the date was subsequently shifted to January 12, and later to January 16, after an Executive Council Meeting in Abuja. However, the declaration was not made as anticipated.
The governor’s defection date has been rescheduled multiple times, with the latest date being January 20, a day after his meeting with President Bola Tinubu. It is reported that Governor Yusuf pleaded for more time to widen consultations, prompting the party headquarters to grant him an extension. Prior to his meeting with President Tinubu, Governor Yusuf had a secret meeting with his godfather, Rabiu Kwankwaso, to discuss his planned defection to the APC.
The Kano chapter of the APC has already inaugurated an e-membership registration committee, co-chaired by Rabiu Suleiman-Bichi and Baffa Babba-Dan’agundi. Although a membership card was reserved for the governor at his Diso Ward of Gwale Local Government Area, registration has commenced across the state. The development comes as President Tinubu had planned to host Mr. Kwankwaso, but reportedly put the meeting on hold after meeting with Governor Yusuf.
The ongoing registration exercise is a significant step for the APC in Kano, as the party seeks to strengthen its presence in the state. The delay in Governor Yusuf’s defection has sparked interest, with many awaiting his next move. As the registration process continues, it remains to be seen how the governor’s eventual defection will impact the state’s political landscape. With the APC gearing up for future elections, the successful integration of new members, including potentially Governor Yusuf, will be crucial in determining the party’s prospects in Kano.
