National leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Rabiu Kwankwaso, has dismissed reports claiming he endorsed the alleged defection of Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speculation has grown in recent days that Governor Yusuf is preparing to leave the NNPP for the APC. Reports on Tuesday night suggested that Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State and NNPP presidential candidate, had reversed his previous opposition and approved the move.
However, Kwankwaso’s media aide, Saifullahi Hassan, described the claims as false and misleading.
“We wish to state unequivocally that this report is false, misleading, and entirely without factual basis,” Hassan said in a statement on Wednesday. “Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso remains fully committed to the ideals, vision, and principles of the New Nigeria People’s Party.”
Hassan emphasized that Governor Yusuf, elected on the NNPP platform, remains a party member.
“Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf was elected Governor of Kano State on the platform of the NNPP and continues to uphold the mandate freely given to him by the people,” he said. “At no time did Senator Kwankwaso endorse, support, or approve any alleged move by Governor Yusuf to the APC. Any report suggesting otherwise is a deliberate misrepresentation of facts and should be treated with utmost scepticism.”
The NNPP urged the public and media to rely on verified information. “We call on party supporters, members of the public, and the media to disregard this misinformation and rely only on credible sources,” the statement read.
Separately, NNPP spokesperson Ladipo Johnson also strongly refuted the reports, describing them as deliberate falsehoods.
“This is as wicked a lie as it is a blatant falsehood by those who clearly lack moral compass and scruples,” Johnson said. He accused those allegedly planning to leave the party of twisting Kwankwaso’s words to mislead the public.
“Deliberately and mischievously twisting his words to suggest that he has endorsed their impending move is as pitifully childish as it can get,” Johnson added.
He further warned that individuals wishing to defect should do so without claiming Kwankwaso’s backing. “If these people feel they are moving to greener pastures and have public support, they should leave the party. Do not attempt to deceive the public by claiming the support or blessings of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso,” he said, adding that traitors to the party would face rejection in the 2027 general elections.
As of the time of filing this report, Governor Yusuf has not publicly commented on the defection rumours.
