Kwankwaso wishes Kano governor happy 63rd amid defection rumours

Rabiu Kwankwaso, national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), has sent heartfelt birthday wishes to Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf on his 63rd birthday, even as speculation mounts over a possible defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a message released on Tuesday, Kwankwaso reflected on his long-standing political relationship with Yusuf, highlighting the various roles he has played over the years. Yusuf served as Kwankwaso’s personal assistant during his first term as governor, later as a minister, principal private assistant, and commissioner during the ex-governor’s second tenure, before being elected governor himself.

“I reflect on the many years of our shared political journey, during which he served in various important capacities… through which he contributed to the vision and programmes we pursued for the development of Kano State,” Kwankwaso said.

He prayed that the new year would bring Yusuf wisdom, good health, and “clarity of purpose.”

The birthday message comes amid ongoing reports that Yusuf, the NNPP’s only elected governor, might consider joining the APC without the endorsement of the party’s national leader. Kwankwaso has previously indicated that he would only consider defecting to another party if offered a presidential or vice-presidential ticket.

Observers see Kwankwaso’s message as both a personal commendation and a subtle appeal for loyalty within the party ahead of the 2027 elections.