Kano State experienced a tense atmosphere on Monday following Governor Abba Yusuf’s defection from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The defection, initially scheduled for January 5, was postponed to Monday.

Governor Yusuf, who won the 2023 election under the NNPP platform, reportedly switched to APC to accelerate development projects in the state. Sources also cite unresolved leadership disputes and ongoing court cases within NNPP as factors that could threaten his mandate.

There was no official statement or formal ceremony marking the move, but it was evident that the Governor and his administration had left the NNPP. Government officials were seen wearing caps featuring the infinity emblem of President Bola Tinubu, signaling their new party allegiance.

The NNPP flag at the Government House entrance and the Deputy Governor’s office was removed, replaced with national flags. Senior officials were largely absent from their offices, while junior staff were seen in small group discussions.

Security was significantly heightened, with armored vehicles and personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, DSS, and NSCDC deployed around the State Government House. Sources said the Governor skipped a formal ceremony to prevent clashes between his supporters and loyalists of Rabiu Kwankwaso, NNPP’s factional leader, who opposes the defection.

A cabinet member confirmed to The Nation: “We are no longer in NNPP. The essential steps of the defection to APC have been completed, and the process is ongoing.”

Reports indicate that Governor Yusuf plans to travel abroad with key stakeholders to brief President Tinubu on his defection. Notably, all local government chairmen and NNPP House of Assembly members reportedly joined Yusuf in switching to APC, deepening the political divide in Kano State.