Yusuf said his defection is irrevocable, even as his deputy, Aminu Gwarzo, elected to stick to Kwankwaso, risking imminent impeachment from office. Kwankwaso’s failure to restrain another perceived loyal lieutenant from defecting to the APC further consolidated Tinubu’s foothold in Kano ahead of the 2027 general election. “I didn’t say I won’t join APC, but we must first be clearly assured of the future of Kano government before we join the APC. Recalling a previous political alignment, Kwankwaso said his camp had played a significant role in forming the Muhammadu Buhari-led government but was later sidelined. He emphasised that any defection must be based on clear assurances regarding the protection of his supporters and the Kano government structures.

Source: The Guardian January 16, 2026 05:31 UTC