The Kwankwasiyya movement is facing internal turmoil as supporters appear divided between Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and the movement’s leader, Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, amid reports that the governor plans to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s possible defection has plunged the Kwankwasiyya movement into a deep crisis. As Yusuf is reportedly preparing to announce his defection to the APC during a State Executive Council meeting scheduled for Wednesday.
According to sources, the move will be made without his deputy and without the endorsement of NNPP national leader and former Kano State governor, Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso.
A source who spoke to the medium confirmed that the decision has sparked confusion and anxiety among Kwankwasiyya supporters. While some followers have vowed to stand firmly with Governor Abba, others insist their loyalty remains with Kwankwaso. Many within the movement are instead calling for unity to prevent a total collapse of the group.
Although it remains unclear whether the defection signals a complete political break between Abba and his longtime mentor, information suggests that Kwankwaso is deeply displeased with the development. Observers say the growing distance between the two leaders has left followers uncertain about which direction to take.
Signs of a Growing Split several developments point to a widening rift within the Kwankwasiyya movement. Kwankwaso Warns Against Defection NNPP leader Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso has issued a stern warning to party members contemplating a move to the APC.
In a video message addressed to supporters, he cautioned: “Tell those planning to defect that no one who betrays trust ever succeeds. Someone may think they have succeeded after 10 years, but they will eventually fall flat on their face.
The remarks are widely interpreted as a direct warning to NNPP members considering following Governor Abba to the APC. Whether this message will influence supporters remains uncertain.
NNPP Chairman Removed
Tensions escalated further on Tuesday when Hashim Dungurawa, the NNPP Kano State chairman, was removed from his position alongside his ward chairman.
This followed his denial of involvement in efforts to reconcile Governor Abba and Kwankwaso.
The NNPP accused Dungurawa of six offenses, including inciting internal conflict, poor leadership, disrespect toward party members and the governor, sabotage, and the expulsion of key party figures.
Shu’aibu Hassan announced the decision during a video press briefing, after which the Gargari Ward chairman declared Dungurawa’s removal effective January 30, 2025. This internal struggle comes amid public denials by the ousted chairman, who rejected claims that he fueled the rift between Abba and Kwankwaso.
A Movement in Crisis Supporters are now openly taking sides, while rival factions claim to have expelled one another from the party.
Meanwhile, Kwankwaso’s warning against defection has further polarized supporters—some backing Governor Abba due to his current political power, others remaining loyal to Kwankwaso as the movement’s founder.
Dr. Kabiru Sufi, a lecturer at the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) in Kano, observes that although there has been no open confrontation yet, the situation remains fragile and unpredictable.
Calls for Unity.
Since news of the planned defection emerged on Monday, Kwankwasiyya supporters across Kano State have been unsettled. While some await clear directives from Kwankwaso, others are prepared to follow Governor Abba wherever he goes.
However, many stakeholders are calling for reconciliation. Leaders from all 44 local government areas have reportedly held meetings urging both Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and NNPP leader Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso to move together into the APC to preserve unity within the movement.
Uncertain Future Ahead the unfolding events have raised serious questions about the future of the Kwankwasiyya movement and the relevance of the NNPP as the 2027 general elections approach.
Whether the movement survives this internal crisis or fractures permanently will depend largely on the next moves of its two most influential figures.
