Former Kano governor Ibrahim Shekarau defends Governor Abba Yusuf’s defection from NNPP to APC, calling it a legitimate exercise of political rights
Former Kano State Governor Ibrahim Shekarau has defended Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s decision to leave the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the move as a legitimate exercise of political rights.
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Shekarau’s remarks followed criticism from the leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, who labelled Yusuf a “betrayer” for his intended defection.
“Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf should not be accused of betrayal over his decisions, because political realignments are personal decisions guided by circumstances and consultations,” Shekarau said.
Recalling Kwankwaso’s own political history, the former governor highlighted that the NNPP leader had previously defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC while holding office, without relinquishing his mandate.
“Governor Abba Yusuf is only following your footsteps,” Shekarau said.
Shekarau, who served as Kano State governor from 2003 to 2011, also addressed his departure from the NNPP, citing marginalisation in power-sharing arrangements despite being promised a senatorial ticket.
He stressed that defections should not be framed as betrayal when they are made transparently and in consultation with supporters.
Meanwhile, the Kano chapter of the NNPP affirmed Yusuf as the state party leader.
National Vice-Chairman (Northwest), Sani Danmasani, emphasised that the state governor remains the NNPP leader by virtue of his position, and that Kwankwaso and his Kwankwasiyya Movement have been expelled for anti-party activities.
Danmasani reiterated that any negotiations for 2027 alliances by expelled members are invalid if conducted under the NNPP name, warning that only the party’s Board of Trustees and National Executive Committee can negotiate on behalf of the NNPP.
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Shekarau further defended the ruling APC administration, arguing that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government is committed to restoring stability and growth in Nigeria, particularly through international cooperation and the Renewed Hope Agenda.
