Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has formally dumped the New Nigeria People’s Party, (NNPP) and would be heading to the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC. Governor Yusuf, cited deepening internal crises and the need to safeguard the broader interest of the people of Kano State as reasons for resigning from the NNPP.

This was contained in a statement signed by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Friday. He said, “Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has formally resigned his membership of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), citing deepening internal crises and the need to safeguard the broader interest of the people of Kano State.

The Governor, in a letter addressed to the Chairman of Diso-Chiranchi Ward, NNPP, Gwale Local Government Area, officially communicated his decision to withdraw from the party, effective Friday, 23rd January 2026.

Tofa quoted the governor’s letter as saying, “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 Friday, 23rd, January 2026.

“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 Governor resigned with 21 members of the State Assembly, 8 members of the House of Representatives, and 44 Local Government Chairmen of Kano State

The resignation letter was acknowledged by the party Secretary, Diso-Chiranchi Ward, Hon. Kabiru Zubairu, who commended the Governor for his laudable projects in infrastructure, urban renewal, health, education, and economic empowerment.

Kwankwaso reacts, tells loyalists – stay firm, don’t sell out
Reacting to the development, the National leader of NNPP, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, urged his loyalists to remain steadfast in upholding the party’s ideology and principles, warning them not to “sell out.”

Speaking in a video shared on Facebook by his aide, Saifullahi Hassan, Kwankwaso said he too could have been compromised if not for his firm commitment to the party’s values.
“We know the sacrifices involved in sustaining a movement, and we are proud of your loyalty. Be strong and persevere. Our state needs progressive minds who uphold ideology, not those who abandon it for money,” he said.

Kwankwaso praised his supporters’ courage, noting that without their doggedness, he might have been swayed by capitalist interests that disregard the poor. He urged them to continue mobilising families, friends, and neighbours, stressing that the struggle for freedom is never easy.

“We pray for good health and life to see the elections and work towards securing votes in Kano,” he added, thanking his supporters on behalf of Deputy Governor, Senator Rufai Hanga, and other Kwankwasiyya leaders.