A source close to the Abba Yusuf administration has said that the governor’s alleged plan to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC) is driven by his desire to secure re-election in 2027 on what he considers a more viable political platform.
Naijaonpoint reports that the source, who spoke to BusinessDay on condition of anonymity, said Governor Yusuf is increasingly concerned about the viability of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) ahead of the next general election, citing deepening divisions and unresolved leadership crises within the party.
According to the source, internal wrangling within the NNPP has raised concerns within the governor’s camp about the party’s ability to mount a strong electoral challenge in 2027.
“The governor is worried about how things are shaping up in the NNPP. The internal leadership crisis has not been resolved, and this has serious implications for 2027,” the source said.
The source also pointed to the growing political influence of Jibrin Barau, the Deputy President of the Senate, as a major factor shaping the governor’s political calculations.
According to the source, Barau is widely favoured within the APC, both at the state and national levels, to clinch the party’s 2027 governorship ticket in Kano.
“You must be aware that Barau is highly favoured by the leadership of the APC in Kano and at the national level for the 2027 governorship ticket, which he is likely to get on a platter,” the source said.
The source added that Barau had long declared his interest in the Kano governorship and has steadily built a formidable political structure across the state.
“You may also know that Barau declared his interest in the Kano governorship a long time ago and has been working hard towards it, as he enjoys strong grassroots support,” the source added.
Speaking further, the source claimed that Governor Yusuf’s fear of facing Barau on the APC platform was central to the alleged defection plan.
“It is the fear of Barau that is driving Governor Yusuf to the APC because he has weighed his chances and knows he does not stand a chance with Barau running on the APC ticket,” the source stated.