I did not give approval to Abba Yusuf to join APC – Kwankwaso

Rabiu Kwankwaso, national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), has denied endorsing the rumoured defection of Abba Yusuf, governor of Kano, to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

There are growing speculations that Yusuf is finalising his defection from the NNPP to the APC.

On Tuesday night, reports swirled that Kwankwaso — who had previously opposed talks of NNPP members, including Yusuf, defecting to the APC — has reversed his position and endorsed their move.

But in a statement, Saifullahi Hassan, media aide to the former governor of Kano, described the reports as false, saying Kwankwaso remains “fully committed to the ideals, vision, and principles of the party”.

“We wish to state unequivocally that this report is false, misleading, and entirely without factual basis,” the statement reads.

“Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf was elected Governor of Kano State on the platform of the NNPP and remains a member of the party, with an obligation to uphold the mandate freely given to him by the people.

“At no time did Senator Kwankwaso endorse, support, or express approval of any alleged move by Governor Yusuf to the APC. Any report suggesting otherwise is a deliberate misrepresentation of facts and should be treated with utmost scepticism.

“We therefore urge members of the public, party supporters, and the media to disregard this misinformation and rely only on verified and credible sources for accurate information.”

In a separate statement, Ladipo Johnson, NNPP spokesperson, also countered the reports.

“This is as wicked a lie as it is clearly a shameful, blatant falsehood by those who obviously have no moral compass and are completely devoid of any scruples,” the statement reads.

Johnson said those seeking to leave the party have “no self-worth if they feel they must misinform the public about Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s position”.

“Deliberately and mischievously twisting his words to fool the masses that he has endorsed their impending move is as pitifully childish as it can get,” he said.

“We would appreciate it if these people would simply move out of the party, if they choose to go. If you feel that you are going to greener pastures and have the support of the masses, then go.

“Do not attempt to fool the masses that you have the support or blessings of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.”

Johnson added that members who betray the party will be rejected by Nigerians in the 2027 elections.