Party Politics Heats Up As APC Speaks On Yusuf’s Post-Defection Ticket

The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State, Abdullahi Abbas, has said the party is willing to welcome Governor Abba Yusuf of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) amid speculations over his possible defection.

Abbas stated that the APC would not shut its doors to any political figure interested in joining, noting that politics is fundamentally about numbers and broad-based inclusion.

“He is welcome in our party because no sensible politician would reject an addition. Politics, after all, is a game of numbers,” Abbas said in an interview with Daily Trust.

He explained that the defection of Governor Yusuf and his supporters would significantly boost the APC’s strength ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“Any defection into your party is an increase in your numbers and, ultimately, your chances of success at the polls,” he added.

The party chairman reiterated that the APC has consistently maintained an open-door policy for those willing to align with its ideals.

“We have always made it clear that anyone who sees the appeal of our party and wishes to join us is welcome,” he said.

No talk of automatic ticket

Addressing speculation that Governor Yusuf might be seeking an automatic ticket as part of a defection deal, Abbas said such discussions were premature.

“That is not an issue for now. It only becomes relevant after all necessary processes have been completed and the defection is formally concluded,” he explained.

He further revealed that Yusuf’s defection, if it happens, would likely be accompanied by several political office holders, including local government chairmen, councillors and other elected officials.

“There are elected local government chairmen, councillors and other political office holders who will come with him,” Abbas said.

He assured party members that the APC would put mechanisms in place to ensure smooth integration of new entrants alongside existing members.

“We will sit down and develop a strategy that benefits everyone. There will be no crisis between old members and new ones,” he stated.

Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Abbas said the party’s focus remains on building unity and a strong structure capable of winning.

“We are awaiting his coming, and when that happens, we will work out a framework that ensures the party’s success in a united manner,” he said.

Abbas also addressed reports suggesting delays in the governor’s defection, noting that such political moves require careful planning and due process.

“A governor’s defection is not something that happens overnight. There are procedures involved, and until they are completed, it remains an intention,” he explained.

He dismissed rumours that Governor Yusuf had fixed a specific date to defect, clarifying that no such public declaration had been made.

“The governor never openly stated that he would join the APC on any particular date,” Abbas added.