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Not Power, but People: Kwankwaso’s True Price for Rejoining APC

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3 months ago

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By: Ashahabu Lawal Rafukka

In every generation, there emerges a leader who carries the hopes of the downtrodden not as a burden but as a sacred trust. For northern Nigeria, and indeed for millions across the country, that leader has been Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. His politics, often misunderstood by the elite, has always been about service, loyalty, and an unrelenting commitment to the ordinary man and woman whose voices are often drowned out in the noise of partisan struggle.

When news broke in Kano that Kwankwaso had declared, “We are ready to join APC… if,” many rushed to interpret his words as another sign of political maneuvering ahead of 2027. But for those who have followed his journey, from the days of the red cap revolution to his current role as the anchor of the NNPP, his statement was not a signal of desperation for power. Rather, it was the voice of a man tested by betrayal, tempered by sacrifice, and now speaking with the moral clarity of one who has placed the interest of his people above personal ambition.

Kwankwaso reminded Nigerians that he was among the founding fathers of the All Progressives Congress, a coalition that once carried the dreams of millions hungry for change. He recalled the persecutions endured at the hands of state machinery, the battles fought when it was neither safe nor fashionable to stand on the side of the opposition. Yet, when the party finally triumphed, he and his loyal movement were cast aside, denied recognition, and sidelined in the very house they helped to build.

The bitterness of that betrayal did not break him. Instead, it sharpened his resolve. For Kwankwaso, politics has never been about personal accommodation but about ensuring that the people who trust him; the artisans, the farmers, the teachers, the jobless graduates who line the streets in their thousands whenever he speaks are never abandoned to the whims of opportunists.

His message to the APC was clear: any partnership must recognise the _Kwankwasiyya_ Movement, not as an appendage to be exploited and discarded, but as an equal force with dignity, history, and a living bond with the masses.

And therein lies the uniqueness of Kwankwaso. In a political culture where defection is often seen as opportunism, his insistence on conditions is an act of defiance against the transactional nature of Nigerian politics. He is not closing doors, but neither is he willing to sell out the very people who gave him relevance. His creed is simple: “My movement and its people are paramount to me, and I cannot abandon them for any political arrangement.”

The People’s Democratic Party, too, has not been spared his critique. He recalled how, even after swallowing pride to return, his people could not secure something as modest as a zonal party chairman seat. The lesson was searing: the established parties of today are more concerned with factional preservation than genuine inclusivity. By rejecting humiliation from both PDP and APC, Kwankwaso has shown that his struggle is not a scramble for office but a fight for his dignity and that of the ordinary Nigerian.

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Those who mistake his stance for stubbornness miss the larger picture. Kwankwaso has evolved into something beyond a career politician. He has become a symbol of political independence in a system that often crushes individuality. His red cap is no longer just cloth; it is a banner of resistance, a rallying cry for the poor, and a statement that politics can be people-driven, not elite-manipulated.

What makes his current position even more profound is the fact that he could easily have succumbed. At 68, having contested for the presidency twice, and after decades in public life, many would argue he has little left to prove. Yet, rather than clutching at the straws of personal ambition, he has chosen to stand on principle. His words carry the weight of sacrifice: “We are ready to join APC under strong conditions and promises. We will not allow anyone to use us and later dump us.”

In the wider canvas of Nigerian politics, this is radical. Here is a man telling the ruling party that the price of his entry is not a personal appointment, not a ministerial slot, not even the promise of a presidential ticket, but the recognition of his people. By placing the downtrodden above himself, Kwankwaso has elevated the meaning of politics to something nobler than the pursuit of power.

For the _talakawa_ who make up the heart of the _Kwankwasiyya_ Movement, this is not rhetoric. They know the story of a man who, as governor, introduced free feeding in schools, scholarships for indigent students, empowerment programs for widows and small traders, and countless opportunities for the forgotten. They know the man who turned hundreds of youths into graduates abroad through overseas scholarships, giving poor families a chance to dream. These are not abstract achievements; they are living testimonies in thousands of homes across Kano state and beyond.

And so, when Kwankwaso speaks of not abandoning his people, he speaks with the moral capital of one who has already invested in their lives. That is why they fill stadium to hear him, why they march in his red cap, why they defend him in conversations across streets and motor parks. To them, he is not just a politician; he is a servant who has never ceased to serve.

Therefore, the road to 2027 will no doubt tempt many with promises and alliances. But Kwankwaso’s current posture is a reminder that the real measure of leadership is not how many offices one holds but how firmly one protects the trust of the people.

Indeed, by refusing to trade away his movement cheaply, he has preserved the dignity of the _talakawa_ who stand behind him. In doing so, he has also offered Nigeria a mirror, showing what politics could look like if principles were valued over expedience.

Perhaps his destiny is no longer in chasing the presidency. Certainly, his role now is even greater: to remain the conscience of the North, the defender of the neglected, the one man who can stand before the elite and declare, “My people are not for sale.” Therefore, in a country starved of integrity, that is leadership enough.

Undoubtedly, Kwankwaso’s refusal to bow to the seduction of power at all costs is more than a political strategy rather it is a lesson. It tells us that the truest ambition is not personal glory but collective uplift. It affirms that, in a nation where betrayal has become second nature, loyalty to the masses is still possible.

And so, when the story of this political era is written, Kwankwaso will not be remembered merely as a two-time presidential candidate or a former governor of Kano state. Instead, he will be remembered as the man who chose his people over power, who refused to abandon the downtrodden at the altar of ambition, and who showed Nigeria that politics can be more than a game; it can be service, sacrifice, and fidelity to the very end.

Ashahabu Lawal Rafukka, a veteran Journalist, and former Kano State Bureau Chief of NAN, writes from Katsina

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Abba Kabir Yusuf and the Politics of Strategic Realignment: Why the APC Option Makes Sense

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3 days ago

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December 31, 2025

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By Comrade Najeeb Nasir Ibrahim
Kano Concern Citizens for Good Governance

In politics, leadership is measured not by emotional loyalty to platforms, but by the courage to make strategic decisions that protect stability, relevance, and the collective interest of the people. Recent reports indicating that the Executive Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, may defect from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) should therefore be assessed with political maturity rather than sentiment.

Kano State, Nigeria’s most populous state, occupies a critical position in national politics. Any political decision taken by its governor has implications far beyond party structures—it directly affects governance, development, and Kano’s bargaining power at the federal level.

The Political Reality Behind the Decision

Governor Yusuf emerged under the NNPP, largely supported by the Kwankwasiyya movement. However, evolving political realities—particularly internal divisions within the NNPP and increasing national realignments—have made the status quo difficult to sustain.

The open invitation extended by the APC, reportedly backed by key party stakeholders, reflects recognition of Governor Yusuf’s political weight. More significantly, indications that a large majority of NNPP lawmakers in the Kano State House of Assembly may follow him suggest that this is not an isolated ambition but a calculated collective shift.

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Why the APC Alignment Is a Wise Decision

First, alignment with the ruling party at the federal level enhances access to national resources, infrastructure funding, and policy collaboration. In Nigeria’s political system, federal-state harmony often determines the pace and scale of development. Kano cannot afford isolation at the centre.

Second, internal crises within the NNPP have increasingly become a distraction to governance. Political stability is essential for effective leadership. A move to the APC could consolidate political forces, reduce factional conflicts, and allow the governor to focus squarely on service delivery.

Third, with the 2027 general elections approaching, political foresight is essential. The APC’s nationwide structure, institutional depth, and electoral machinery offer a broader and more sustainable platform than a fragmented opposition party. This positioning strengthens both the governor’s future prospects and Kano’s influence in national decision-making.

Fourth, the move could contribute to building a wider northern political coalition—an important factor in shaping national leadership and policy outcomes in Nigeria.

Responding to the Critics

Critics frame the potential defection as a betrayal of loyalty to the Kwankwasiyya movement. While loyalty has its place, governance must always come before political sentiment. Political movements are vehicles for progress, not permanent constraints.

Others raise concerns about ideological inconsistency. However, Nigerian politics has long been shaped by strategic realignments. What ultimately matters is not party branding, but the ability to deliver dividends of democracy to the people.

Implications for Kano Politics

This moment represents a turning point in Kano’s political history. It signals a possible fragmentation of the Kwankwasiyya structure, a redefinition of long-standing political alliances, and a reshaping of opposition strength within the state. More importantly, it underscores early preparations for the decisive 2027 elections.

Conclusion

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s reported move toward the APC should be seen as a strategic and forward-looking political decision, driven by the need for stability, development, and relevance in national politics. While the decision carries political risks, leadership often demands difficult choices.

History will ultimately judge this decision by its outcomes. If Kano secures greater development, stronger federal collaboration, and political stability, then this move will stand as a wise and timely decision made in the best interest of the people.

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Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s Defection:A Strategic Path To Peace,Development And Stability

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3 days ago

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December 31, 2025

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By Tijjani Sarki
Good Governance Advocate & Public Policy Analyst
31st December,2025

Politics, when stripped of emotions and partisan sentiments, is ultimately about results. The reported decision of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to align Kano State with the ruling party at the centre should therefore be examined from the standpoint of peace, development, security, and long-term stability, not mere party loyalty. When viewed objectively, this move holds strong potential to reposition Kano for inclusive growth and internal harmony.

KANO AND THE COST OF POLITICAL ISOLATION
Historically, Kano State has often found itself operating on a political wavelength different from that of the Federal Government. Across different eras PRP/NPN, ANPP/PDP, PDP/APC, NNPP/APC this misalignment has repeatedly come with consequences. Despite Kano’s enormous population, commercial dominance, and strategic importance in Northern Nigeria, the state has frequently complained of inadequate federal presence in key appointments, budgetary considerations, and flagship national projects.
Political isolation, whether real or perceived, has a cost. It limits access, weakens bargaining power, and fuels a sense of exclusion. Over time, this environment also breeds internal political tension, deepens factional rivalries, and distracts leadership from governance to constant political firefighting.

DEFECTION AS A TOOL FOR PEACE AND STABILITY
One often overlooked advantage of aligning with the ruling party is the reduction of political hostility between the state and the centre. When a governor enjoys smoother access to federal institutions and decision-makers, it lowers the temperature of confrontation and creates room for cooperation.

For Kano, this has direct implications for internal peace and security. Federal-state synergy improves intelligence sharing, strengthens coordination between security agencies, and enhances federal responsiveness to security challenges. In a state as politically vibrant and densely populated as Kano, stability is not optional it is foundational.

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Furthermore, internal political crises thrive where there is uncertainty and fragmentation. A clearer political direction and stronger centre-state relationship can reduce elite conflict, calm rival power blocs, and allow the government to focus on governance rather than survival.

DEVELOPMENT FLOWS WHERE ACCESS EXISTS
Development does not occur in a vacuum. While competence and vision matter, access and influence often determine which states attract federal projects, pilot programmes, and strategic investments. Aligning with the ruling party gives Kano a louder voice at the national table a platform to push for
Improved federal road and rail infrastructure
Expanded security and social intervention programmes
Increased representation in federal boards and agencies
Stronger consideration in national budgetary planning
Kano’s population size alone justifies greater federal attention. Its markets, agricultural value chains, and human capital make it a natural hub for industrial expansion. Political alignment enhances the state’s ability to convert these advantages into tangible outcomes.

SECURITY, INVESTMENT, AND SOCIAL CALM
Investors, both local and international, are drawn to environments of predictability and political stability. A Kano that enjoys harmonious relations with the Federal Government sends a strong signal of confidence. Improved security cooperation, reduced political friction, and steady policy direction all combine to create a more attractive investment climate, which in turn generates jobs and reduces social tension.
Relative peace is not merely the absence of conflict, it is the presence of opportunity.

When people see development projects, employment prospects, and functional governance, political agitation naturally declines.

KANO INTEREST FIRST THE REAL TEST
While the defection itself is strategic, its success will be measured by how well it is used. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf must ensure that this political repositioning is not reduced to symbolism. Kano’s interest must come first always.
This means, Aggressively negotiating federal presence in Kano
Demanding recognition proportionate to Kano’s contribution to national life Prioritising security, youth employment, and infrastructure
Using access to power to unify, not polarise, the state

CONCLUSION: PRAGMATISM OVER SENTIMENT
In politics, stubborn isolation rarely produces progress. Strategic alignment, when done with clarity of purpose, can unlock peace, development, and stability. Governor Yusuf’s move should therefore be seen as a pragmatic response to Kano’s historical experience, not a betrayal of ideals.
If this opportunity is used wisely, Kano stands to gain relative peace, improved security coordination, stronger development outcomes, and a more stable political environment. The real task now is delivery.

History will not judge the governor by the party he joined, but by what Kano gained because of the decision.

Sarki write from Kano
Can be reached via responsivecitizensinitiative@gmail.com

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Kano 2027 : As DSP Barau Attracts Wider Endorsements

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2 weeks ago

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December 21, 2025

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By Abba Anwar

Multitude of groups are queuing up to make an official endorsement of the Deputy Senate President and First Deputy Speaker of ECOWAS Parliament, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Barau I Jibrin CFR, for the 2027 Kano governorship position.

Impressed by his life saving interventions across the state, political groups, non political groups, urban-based, rural-based, semi-urban based, former elected officials, from the state, to local governments, down to wards levels, business community groups, students bodies and civil society groups, among others, have been trooping to the DSP to register their presence and loyalty.

Apart from the immediate past local governments chairmen, few weeks back, he got more endorsements from former chairmen of the 44 local government areas of Kano State, who served from 2003–2011 at his office in Abuja. The little fraction in the circle of the immediate past local governments bosses, after their endorsement of the DSP, didn’t discourage those who served between 2003 to 2011, anyway. Who are larger in size and upgraded in commitment.

The 2003 to 2011 loyalists were led by the former chairman of Tofa L.G. Hon. Garba Idris Unguwar Rimi, who also doubles as a former Commissioner during Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje’s reign. During the visit, they unanimously endorsed Sen. Barau for the 2027 Kano governorship. Making reference to his contributions to the people and the party All Progressives Congress (APC). They pledged full support for his victory.

From the higher circle of political actors, who also see reason in declaring their total and absolute support for the DSP’s gubernatorial race, former federal Legislators paid a solidarity visit to the Senator. The group was led by Hon Umar Sadiq, who represented Kumbotso Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, between 1979 and 1983.

Among the former legislators, there are those who were at the House of Representatives twice or even thrice. And those who served during the second, third and current fourth republics They requested the Deputy Senate President, to transmit their message of solidarity to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his bid for the second term.

Hon. Mustapha Bala Dawaki, the Chief of Staff to the current APC National Chairman, was among the delegation. Another prominent lawmaker Hon Faruk Lawan, who represented Bagwai/Shanono of Kano State for 16 years, emphasized their unwavering commitment for ensuring the victory of President Tinubu and Senator Barau come 2027.

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The leader of the delegation said it point blank that, “We don’t have any candidate other than Senator Barau. Insha Allah, he is the next governor of Kano State. Senator Barau has been working like a governor – his track record of performance is outstanding. We, therefore, urge him to sustain his good work.”

Accepting their call with deep appreciation, DSP Barau acknowledged that, “This is my constituency as a member of the forum, and it is a thing of joy that you have queued behind the movement to rescue Kano State from the present misrule. This is a rescue mission.

It is the failure of leadership that pushed Kano State to the path of retrogression. Kano is being run like a private enterprise. We will not sit idly and allow things to continue deteriorating. It is not about you or me; it is about our state. Let us all work together to change the situation and utilise all resources for the benefit of all.”

Distinguished Deputy Senate President encourages that, “We are on a rescue mission.”

The delegation of the former federal lawmakers to the Senator, signifies his encouraging human management style. The way he manages decades of relationship, says a lot in his capacity as a leader.

Senator Barau is not only a fast lane to responsible political leadership and progressive governance, as an art and an institution, he is a democratic melting pot, where responsibility, eligibility, ingenuity, acceptability and availability are conjoined together for a better Kano.

His grassroots touch and glue-like atmosphere in democratic parlance create more corridors for real democratic foot soldiers, from the bottom of our society – our local governments – to internalize and institutionalize his genuine feeling for the state. Hence, their support and endorsements from left, right, and centre.

It is under this arrangement and political arithmetic that, the immediate past local governments Secretaries, from across the 44 local governments in the state, paid similar solidarity and endorsement visit to the DSP. Under the leadership of Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai.

Being the most qualified for the position, in their political choice and estimation, they assured him of their total support from their respective communities. Challenging that, they would not blow their trumpet, but the difference would be clear when the chips are down.

To display a deeper touch for the Senator’s bid for Kano gubernatorial seat, come 2027, another all-important group under the platform of an Association of Former Supervisory Councilors, who were in government from 1999 to the last reign of the former Governor in the state, were with the DSP, live and direct, as they endorsed his candidature.

To show how important and engaging the former Councilors were in connection to the endorsement, they were in Abuja in their hundreds. Assuring all that, they would do everything humanly possible to make sure that, DSP becomes governor come 2027 election period.

One important point to note is, all those paying solidarity visits to the Senator, they, at the same time, endorsed the candidature of President Tinubu, to run for a second term.

What surprisesd all during the Councilors solidarity visit, was when they disclosed to the Distinguished Senator that, when the time comes they would purchase gubernatorial Intent Form for him.

This alone speaks volumes of how he sits well in what can be described as Barau Comfort Zone.

Anwar writes from Kano
Sunday, 21st December, 2025

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