Mass Defection Rocks Kano Politics: Gov Yusuf, 21 Lawmakers, 8 Reps, 44 Chairmen Quit NNPP, Pledge Loyalty to Governor

In a dramatic turn of events shaking the political landscape of Kano State, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has formally resigned from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), alongside 21 members of the State House of Assembly, 8 members of the House of Representatives, and all 44 Local Government Chairmen. The mass defection, announced on Friday, January 23, 2026, comes amid deepening internal crises within the NNPP and widespread speculation of a shift to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The governor’s resignation was communicated through a letter addressed to the Chairman of the Diso-Chiranchi Ward of the NNPP in Gwale Local Government Area, taking effect from Sunday, January 25, 2026. In the letter, Governor Yusuf expressed gratitude for the opportunities provided by the party since 2022 but cited persistent leadership disagreements, ongoing legal battles, and growing divisions as reasons for his departure.

“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, with effect from Sunday, 25 January 2026,” the letter reads. “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.

“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. 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.

“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. 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.”

The accompanying lawmakers and local government chairmen have pledged their unwavering loyalty to Governor Yusuf, signaling a unified front in this political realignment. This move follows weeks of speculation and internal NNPP turmoil, including the dissolution of the party’s Kano State executive, local government, and ward leaders earlier this month.

Political analysts view this as a strategic pivot towards the APC, potentially strengthening the ruling party’s hold in the North-West region. Sources indicate that Governor Yusuf’s decision stems from irreconcilable differences with NNPP leader Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, his former political godfather. Kwankwaso, in a recent statement, expressed disappointment, accusing Yusuf of betraying the Kwankwasiyya movement that propelled him to power.

The defection has already triggered ripple effects, with several commissioners vacating their offices in anticipation of a cabinet reshuffle to align with the new political realities. Additionally, the NNPP flag has been removed from the Kano Government House, symbolizing the break from the party.

This development comes against the backdrop of lingering legal challenges facing the NNPP, which the Kano State House of Assembly cited as posing significant risks to political stability. Observers suggest that joining the APC could provide Governor Yusuf with federal backing to advance his administration’s agenda for Kano’s development.

As Kano braces for this seismic shift, stakeholders are calling for calm and unity to ensure the state’s progress remains uninterrupted. NaijaChoice News will continue to monitor the situation as more details emerge.