Kano politics hit a new low on Thursday as Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, national leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and head of the Kwankwasiyya movement, took a thinly veiled swipe at his former protégé, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, over persistent rumors of a ₦250 billion inducement to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a viral social media video, Kwankwaso mocked the alleged offer, saying: “I want to remind you that I deserve a share of the billions you stand to gain after defecting to the ruling party, for it was me who delivered the election for you in 2023. If they collect the billions to come here, settle their debt before they move to APC.”
The statement, laced with sarcasm, suggests that any financial gain from a defection should first settle obligations to the Kwankwasiyya movement and the NNPP, highlighting the growing friction between the two leaders.
Kwankwaso has repeatedly warned against defections, describing them as a betrayal of the NNPP mandate that brought Yusuf to power. He also emphasized that his loyalists are “priceless” and cannot be lured by money.
The governor’s rumored defection, described by sources close to the state government as “irreversible,” is said to be influenced by federal pressure and internal NNPP conflicts.
Former Governor Ibrahim Shekarau, however, defended Yusuf’s political choice, noting that Kwankwaso himself has switched parties multiple times in the past without relinquishing office.
The ₦250 billion figure remains unverified and is widely viewed as exaggerated political gossip.
Yet, the figure has dominated online discussions, fueling speculation about alleged negotiations involving top APC figures in Kano, including Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin and former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje.
The latest exchanges underscore deepening cracks within the NNPP and foreshadow a turbulent lead-up to the 2027 general elections.
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