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The long-rumoured plan by Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been put on hold, amid fresh political manoeuvring involving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former presidential candidate Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
Sources familiar with the development said the governor had initially concluded arrangements to formally announce his defection earlier this week.
However, last-minute strategic concerns forced a rethink, delaying what was expected to be a high-profile political realignment in Kano.
Insiders disclosed that the APC had prepared to showcase Yusuf as a major catch for the party in the state.
The governor was reportedly slated to be the first registrant under the party’s newly introduced online membership registration system in Kano.
As part of the arrangement, former Kano governor Abdullahi Ganduje was expected to escort Yusuf to his Diso Ward to complete the registration process and receive his APC membership card.
The programme was also designed to feature a symbolic return visit to Dawakin Tofa, Ganduje’s hometown, to update the former governor’s membership on the same platform.
However, the plan was abruptly shelved after concerns were raised over internal party protocol.
According to party sources, Yusuf was advised to first engage key APC power brokers in Kano before making any public declaration.
“It was made clear to him that skipping consultations would send the wrong message,” a senior party insider said.
“Meeting Ganduje, Senator Barau Jibrin and other stakeholders is essential to avoid unnecessary tension.”
While speculation initially pointed to January 12 as the likely defection date, sources now say the timeline remains uncertain.
According to them, the move could take place only after Yusuf secures broad acceptance within the Kano APC structure.
At the national level, the delay is also linked to calculations within the Presidency.
Sources claimed President Tinubu approved a temporary pause to allow further engagement with Kwankwaso, whose political influence remains significant in Kano and beyond.
The APC, according to insiders, is wary of recent reports suggesting Kwankwaso may be exploring new political alliances ahead of the 2027 general election.
These reports, party officials said, have altered the ruling party’s strategic outlook.
“There is concern that certain opposition figures could come together in a way that reshapes the 2027 contest,” a source explained.
“That possibility is forcing the APC to tread carefully.”
Party strategists are also said to be evaluating Yusuf’s political strength independent of Kwankwaso.
Some believe the governor’s influence could weaken if his long-standing political alliance with the former Kano governor collapses.
“Without Kwankwaso’s backing, the governor’s political base becomes fragile,” another source said.
“That reality is part of why the APC is still weighing its options.”
In addition, Yusuf is believed to have sought more time to convince lawmakers in the Kano State House of Assembly and the National Assembly to defect alongside him, a move aimed at strengthening his negotiating position.
Meanwhile, unconfirmed reports suggest internal backlash within Kano has further complicated the situation.
Some political observers say the governor is now reassessing the cost of defection amid growing resistance.
As consultations continue behind closed doors, sources indicated that Yusuf may ultimately abandon the APC plan and instead pursue reconciliation with Kwankwaso, keeping his political future open as the 2027 race gradually comes into focus.