Kano politics shifts as Governor Abba Yusuf quits NNPP over lingering party crises

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has formally withdrawn his membership from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), a move that signals a major political realignment in the state and deepens uncertainty within the opposition party.

The governor’s resignation, which takes effect from January 25, 2026, was conveyed in a letter addressed to the chairman of the NNPP in Diso-Chiranchi Ward, Gwale Local Government Area. His exit is understood to be part of a broader defection involving a significant number of elected officials across Kano State.

Confirmation of the development came on Friday through a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, who said the decision followed prolonged internal turmoil that has continued to undermine the party’s stability.

In his resignation letter, Governor Yusuf expressed appreciation to the NNPP for offering him the platform that led to his emergence as governor, as well as for the support he received from party leaders and members since joining the party in 2022.

“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,” the governor stated.

He noted that while his time in the NNPP was marked by goodwill and cooperation, the party has increasingly been consumed by leadership disputes and legal battles that have weakened its organisational structure at both state and national levels.

According to Yusuf, these unresolved conflicts have resulted in widespread disenfranchisement of party members, deepened internal divisions and eroded confidence in the party’s ability to function cohesively.

“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,” he said.

The governor added that the situation had created cracks within the party that now appear difficult to mend, generating uncertainty and instability across its ranks.

Yusuf stressed that his decision was reached after careful reflection and was guided solely by the interest of Kano State and its people.

He maintained that the resignation was made in good faith and without animosity.

“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,” he added.

The development marks a significant turning point in Kano’s political landscape and is expected to trigger further realignments in the days ahead.

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