Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the national leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), has categorically rejected reports suggesting he has approved or endorsed the speculated defection of Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The denial comes amid intense political speculation in Kano that Governor Yusuf is preparing to switch from the NNPP, the platform on which he was elected to the ruling APC.
Rumors intensified on Tuesday following conflicting media reports, with some outlets initially claiming Kwankwaso had reversed his longstanding opposition to such defections and given his blessing to the move.
In a swift clarification issued late Tuesday through his media aide, Saifullahi Hassan, and reinforced by the NNPP's national publicity secretary, Ladipo Johnson, Kwankwaso dismissed the claims as "a deliberate misrepresentation of facts" and "a wicked lie."
"At no time did Senator Kwankwaso endorse, support, or express approval of any alleged move by Governor Yusuf to the APC," Hassan's statement read.
"Any report suggesting otherwise is a deliberate misrepresentation and should be treated with utmost scepticism."
Johnson went further, describing the reports, particularly those stemming from an earlier Premium Times story that was later updated as "a shameful, blatant falsehood" spread by those "devoid of any scruples."
He emphasized that Governor Yusuf remains an NNPP member with a duty to uphold the mandate given by Kano voters.
The confusion reportedly arose from a short video message by Kwankwaso, where he advised some NNPP supporters and appointees facing pressure to "play along" or sign documents related to a political movement linked to the APC (referred to as the "Gandujiyya movement").
Some interpreted this as tacit approval of defections, including the governor's potential move.
However, the NNPP leadership insists this advice was limited to specific individuals under duress and does not amount to an endorsement of Governor Yusuf's rumored plans.
Kwankwaso has consistently expressed commitment to the NNPP's principles and warned that those who betray the party would face rejection from Nigerians in the 2027 elections.
The situation highlights ongoing tensions within Kano's political landscape, as defections remain a hot topic ahead of future polls.
The governor has not yet made any official announcement regarding a party switch.
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