Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and former Governor of Kano State, has outlined specific conditions under which he would consider returning to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), political sources say.
His remarks on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, come amid speculation about possible defections by political figures, including Kano Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
Kwankwaso spoke at his residence in Kano while receiving supporters from Rano and Dawakin Tofa local government areas. He said he would not join the APC “blindly” without first knowing exactly what his role would be and how the move would affect his plans and supporters. “I will not go to the APC blindly.
I must be clearly informed of my role, the direction of the journey and the fate of our plans for the common people, including the position of our supporters and the Kano State Government,” he said.
The NNPP leader stressed that any shift must include clear agreements and guarantees for his political movement and supporters, including the future of elected officials and the state’s political structure if the move happens.
He said this was necessary because of past instances where allies helped form governments but were later sidelined by dominant forces. “In the past, we joined and contributed to forming governments, but later we were abandoned. Have they now changed their position toward us? No clear assurance has been given,” Kwankwaso said.
Kwankwaso’s comments also reiterated his loyalty to the NNPP and his view that any defection must protect the interests of his supporters and the Kano State Government. He noted that his political moves must be based on tangible benefits for the movement and the people who backed his leadership.
Political observers say Kwankwaso’s conditions reflect concerns that shifting political alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections should be carefully negotiated to avoid losses for followers and elected officials.
Some analysts note that internal pressures from defections and realignments in Kano’s political landscape have prompted leaders to define clearer terms before crossing party lines.
Kwankwaso also directed supporters in government positions who feel pressured about their political future to align with Governor Yusuf for now, saying this could help reduce tension as politicking remains in its early stages.
The NNPP leader’s stance underscores ongoing debates within Nigeria’s political class about loyalty, party identity and strategic positioning as parties prepare for major elections in 2027.
Analysts say defined terms and guarantees are becoming more common in negotiations involving high‑profile defections and alliances.
