 in Kano State has rallied behind Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf as its preferred flag bearer for the 2027){kind=link}
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State has rallied behind Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf as its preferred flag bearer for the 2027 governorship election, signalling a major political realignment ahead of the next poll.
Party leaders announced the decision shortly after Yusuf formally joined the APC, a move that reshaped the state’s political landscape and ended weeks of speculation about his future.
Speaking at the launch of the APC’s electronic registration exercise at the Government House, a senior party figure said the endorsement followed internal consultations and consensus-building among aspirants.
“Every serious stakeholder agreed that continuity is the most strategic option for Kano at this moment,” the party leader said, adding that Yusuf now assumes full leadership of the APC structure in the state.
Moreover, the party stressed that its internal tradition places sitting governors at the helm of party affairs within their states, a principle it said would guide preparations for 2027.
The endorsement was further strengthened by public support from top-ranking lawmakers, including the Deputy Senate President, who pledged total backing for Yusuf’s re-election bid.
Observers note that Yusuf’s return to the APC comes with significant political weight.
He crossed over alongside dozens of elected officials and local government leaders, a development that has effectively weakened opposition structures across Kano.
Explaining his decision, the governor said the move was driven by governance realities rather than political sentiment.
“This decision is about results, not pride,” Yusuf said. “Working closely with the Federal Government gives Kano a faster route to development, security, and improved public services.”
He added that aligning with the ruling party at the centre would help accelerate infrastructure delivery and deepen social interventions across the state.
In addition, Yusuf announced plans to establish a Kano Elders Council, which he said would serve as a stabilising platform to promote unity, inclusive dialogue, and good governance.
However, the political shift has also triggered internal fallout. The Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Mustapha Kwankwaso, resigned from the state cabinet shortly after the governor’s defection.
In a resignation letter, Kwankwaso said his decision was guided by personal conviction and loyalty to his political lineage.
“Serving the people of Kano has been an honour,” he said. “But circumstances now require me to step aside with gratitude for the opportunity given to me.”
He commended the governor for his leadership and urged sustained investment in youth empowerment and sports development, describing those sectors as critical to the state’s future.
While the APC consolidation strengthens Yusuf’s position ahead of 2027, analysts say the coming months will test how effectively the ruling party manages internal dissent and sustains its newly expanded coalition in Kano.