Deputy Governor Absent As Principal Yusuf Formally Defects To APC In Kano

Kano State deputy governor, Comrade Abdulsalam Gwarzo, was conspicuously absent on Monday when his principal, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), marking a significant political realignment in the state ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The governor announced his defection at an event held at the Coronation Hall of the Government House in Kano.

Notably, Governor Yusuf appeared at the ceremony wearing his signature Kwankwasiyya white babar riga and red cap to match, a symbolism long associated with his former Kwankwasiyya ideology.

Addressing the gathering, the governor said the decision to join the APC was taken in the best interest of the people of Kano State, following wide consultations and careful reflection on the future needs of the state. However, the absence his deputy noticeable at the event, signalling a division with the administration.

“Today is historic, not just for this government but for the entire good people of Kano. Moments arise when leadership must rise above sentiment and divisive politics to make choices guided by responsibility to history and the future,” Yusuf said.

He disclosed that the defection was a collective decision involving members of his cabinet, all 44 local government chairmen, 22 out of the 24 members of the Kano State House of Assembly, nine out of the 14 members of the House of Representatives from the state, as well as other political stakeholders.

Yusuf said his return to the APC was anchored on the need to work closely with the Federal Government under President Bola Tinubu, aligning with the administration’s ‘Renewed Hope’ Agenda

“This decision is not driven by personal ambition, but by the need for stability, progress and the wellbeing of the people of Kano. Persistent political tension and fragmentation have slowed our progress. Our people now demand results and solutions, not slogans,” he said.

According to the governor, aligning with the ruling party at the centre would enhance cooperation, accelerate development, and ensure effective service delivery.

“By aligning with the centre, we are choosing stability over stagnation and progress over pride,” he added.

Yusuf stressed that the decision did not erase the past or diminish those who had supported his political journey, assuring that his loyalty remained firmly with the people of Kano State.

“My loyalty is unwavering, and it belongs to Kano first, above any other loyalty,” he said.

The governor also announced plans to establish a Kano Elders Council, which he said would function as a non-partisan advisory body to provide guidance on sustainable development and promote reconciliation.

“It will not govern, but guide; not inflame, but reconcile. In moments of uncertainty, it will serve as a stabilising compass for the state,” Governor Yusuf said, adding that his administration would remain inclusive and open to all.

He further called on residents to participate in the APC electronic registration exercise as part of preparations for the 2027 elections.

In his welcome address, the chairman of the APC in Kano State, Abdullahi Abbas, described the governor’s defection as a historic and joyful moment for the party.

“Today marks a historic and joyful moment for the APC. By choosing to join the APC, you have sent a clear signal that the party in Kano is united,” Abbas said.

He pledged the party’s full loyalty, support and cooperation to the governor, assuring Nigerians that the APC in Kano State was ready to work with the Federal Government to build a stronger Kano and Nigeria.

The event attracted several high-profile political figures, including former APC National Chairman and ex-Kano State governor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje; Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, and Senator Kawu Sumaila.

Others in attendance were the Minister of State for Housing and Development, Yusuf Abdullahi Ata; the APC governorship candidate in the 2023 elections, Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, and his running mate, Murtala Sule Garo; former Deputy Governor, Professor Hafiz Abubakar; as well as other party bigwigs; A.A. Zaura and Inuwa Waya, among others.