Kano Governor Abba Yusuf Dumps NNPP Amid Defection Runours
Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has formally resigned his membership of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), bringing weeks of political speculation to an end.
The development was disclosed by the Governor’s spokesperson, Mr. Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, while presenting Yusuf’s letter of resignation.
According to Mr. Tofa, the Governor conveyed his decision in a letter addressed to the Chairman of the NNPP in Diso–Chiranchi Ward, Gwale Local Government Area, with effect from January 23, 2026.
“I write with a deep sense of gratitude to formally notify the leadership of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) of my decision to resign my membership of the party,” the Governor stated in the letter. “This decision takes effect from Sunday, 25 January 2026.”
Governor Yusuf cited persistent internal crises within the party and the need to safeguard the broader interests of the people of Kano State as reasons for his departure.
“In recent times, the party has been confronted with persistent internal challenges arising from leadership disagreements and ongoing legal processes, many of which are presently before the courts for judicial determination,” he noted.
According to the Governor, these disputes have deepened internal divisions and weakened cohesion within the party.
“The growing disenfranchisement among party members has created deep divisions within the party structure, resulting in cracks that appear increasingly irreconcilable and have generated uncertainty at both state and national levels,” Yusuf said.
He explained that his decision followed careful deliberation and was guided solely by considerations of public interest.
“After careful reflection, and without prejudice to the party’s capacity to resolve its internal challenges, I have come to the conclusion that my resignation is in the best interest of the people of Kano State,” the Governor declared.
He stressed that the move was not motivated by bitterness.
“This decision is taken in good faith, without any ill will, and with a continued commitment to peace, unity, and the progress of Kano State,” he added.
Governor Yusuf also expressed appreciation to the NNPP for the opportunity and support extended to him throughout his political journey with the party.
“I remain sincerely appreciative of the opportunity given to me by the party, its leadership, and members across Kano State to be part of its political journey since 2022, as well as the support, goodwill, and cooperation extended to me during my time in the party,” he said.
The Governor is said to be leaving the NNPP alongside 21 members of the Kano State House of Assembly, eight members of the House of Representatives, and 44 local government chairmen across the state.
Confirming receipt of the resignation letter, the Secretary of the NNPP in Diso–Chiranchi Ward, Hon. Kabiru Zubairu, acknowledged the Governor’s contributions to governance in Kano State.
“I wish to concur with His Excellency on the lingering crisis in our party,” Mr. Zubairu said. “Though we are trying our best to contain it, we have no option but to accept the resignation of one of the most performing governors produced by the NNPP.”
He commended Governor Yusuf for what he described as notable achievements in infrastructure development, urban renewal, healthcare delivery, education, and economic empowerment.
Meanwhile, the Governor is yet to officially announce his next political destination. However, strong speculation persists that he may join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), following his recent meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.























































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































