The member of the House of Representatives representing Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency of Kano State, Abdulmumin Jibrin, on Wednesday, has said he is open to leaving the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The lawmaker revealed this while addressing State House correspondents after closed-door talks with President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja.

Jibrin, a close ally of former Kano governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, stated that while it is not the time to consider defecting, he is not totally closed to the option.

Asked if he was defecting to the APC, the lawmaker replied: “I do not think it is time for that conversation, but everything is open, and it’s a possibility.

“The most important thing is the stability of the country; the unity of the country. And I believe that when we get to the bridge, we’ll cross it.”

Jibrin argued that his visit should not surprise observers, given the long relationship between Tinubu and NNPP national leader, Kwankwaso.

“I came to see Mr President, and, of course, the long-term friendship that the President has also enjoyed with the national leader of the NNPP, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.”

Fielding questions on whether he was on a peace mission amid recent tensions between the Presidency and the NNPP leader, Jibrin said both leaders were committed to the country’s progress despite their disputes.

“Well, both of them are very experienced politicians. The President is a first-class politician.

“Of course, the national leader of the NNPP is also a thoroughbred politician, and I believe that both of them are committed to the peace, unity and prosperity of Nigeria.

“So, irrespective of the comments that were made, I do not think that it should be a source of concern that I’m seen in the Villa during this period,” Jibrin said.

He also urged a measured assessment of the administration’s record.

The lawmaker contended, “Every leader does his best, and it depends on how you want to rate him. You can decide to see the cup half full, or you can look at the cup half empty.

“You can decide to assess someone and say, ‘See, you’ve done well, but there’s still much to be done.’ And there are so many ways that you can do an assessment.”