Governor Yusuf defected to APC on January 26, 2026, less than three years after winning the Kano governorship election on NNPP's platform.
Kwankwaso described Yusuf's exit as surprising, saying "even I, at times, find it hard to believe what's happening".
He told BBC Hausa, "Many people say it looks like an arrangement between me and him, or me and others."
Kwankwaso expressed disappointment that Yusuf "handed over NNPP's mandate to the Gandujiyya camp" without justification. He said internal issues could've been resolved through dialogue, adding "NNPP is the most peaceful party".
Kwankwaso dismissed claims of internal crises in NNPP, saying "let them conduct their major congresses... then we'll see where conflicts truly lie".
He also criticized Governor Yusuf's reception by former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje in APC, saying it shows Ganduje has "lost political relevance".
Kwankwaso believes Yusuf will face difficulties in APC and ultimately regret his decision.
He said Kano remains firmly under NNPP control, with efforts underway to build alliances to "rescue Nigeria from its current situation".
