Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), marking a significant shift in the state’s political landscape. The move, which took place on Monday, involved a mass realignment of 34 lawmakers, 44 local government chairmen, and various political appointees. According to Yusuf, the decision followed extensive consultations and an assessment of Kano’s future aspirations, with the aim of accelerating development and delivering democracy dividends.
Yusuf cited the need to collaborate with President Bola Tinubu as a key factor in his decision, emphasizing the importance of working together to drive progress. He described the defection as a choice for progress over pride, highlighting the positive impact of the Renewed Hope Agenda nationwide. The governor also announced plans to establish a Kano Elders Council, which will focus on promoting stability, unity, and good governance in the state.
The defection was facilitated by APC leaders, including former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje and Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who welcomed Yusuf back into the party. Notably, Yusuf had previously been a member of the APC, joining in 2014 and winning the party’s primary election for the Kano Central Senatorial seat. He cited governance realities, national cohesion, and development as reasons for returning to the APC, which he described as a familiar and structured platform for progressive governance.
By rejoining the APC, Yusuf aims to strengthen cooperation with the federal government, accelerate development, enhance security, and improve service delivery in Kano State. He was accompanied by 22 state lawmakers, eight federal legislators, 44 local government chairmen, and 484 councillors, who also defected to the APC. The governor emphasized that their mission is to advance the Kano agenda, prioritizing the state’s interests over personal concerns.
The development is expected to have significant implications for Kano State’s political landscape and its relationship with the federal government. As the state navigates this new era of cooperation, residents and stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the defection translates into tangible benefits and improved governance. With the APC’s renewed presence in the state, Kano is poised for potential growth and development, driven by the collective efforts of its leaders and citizens.
