The Kano State House of Assembly has defended Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s reported plan to defect from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), citing deepening internal crises and legal uncertainties within the party as justification for the move.
Lawmakers said the ongoing leadership tussles and court cases surrounding the NNPP pose a serious threat to the political future of the governor and other elected officials on the party’s platform. According to the Assembly, remaining in a party plagued by unresolved disputes could expose Yusuf’s mandate to legal risks ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on the matter, the Assembly’s Majority Leader explained that the NNPP’s internal divisions have created confusion over its recognised leadership, raising concerns about the legitimacy of party activities, including candidate nominations. He warned that such instability could result in court rulings capable of nullifying electoral victories, drawing parallels with past cases where parties lost mandates due to flawed internal processes.
The lawmakers argued that the governor’s consideration of defection is a preventive step aimed at safeguarding governance continuity and protecting the will of Kano voters. They stressed that their support is not driven by personal or partisan interests but by the need to avoid avoidable political and legal setbacks.
The Assembly also disclosed that consultations are ongoing among key stakeholders, including party leaders and political allies, to determine the most suitable path forward. While the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has been mentioned as a possible destination, no official decision has been announced.
Reactions to the planned defection have been mixed, with some NNPP supporters criticising the move, while others see it as a pragmatic response to the party’s internal challenges. Political observers say the development reflects wider concerns about factionalism within smaller parties and its impact on political stability.
As discussions continue, the Kano State House of Assembly maintains that any decision taken by Governor Yusuf should prioritise stability, legality and effective governance in the state.
