Tension in APC as Tinubu’s Alleged Deal with Kwankwaso Sparks Discontent
There is growing unease within the All Progressives Congress (APC) over a possible alliance between President Bola Tinubu and former New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) presidential candidate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. Reports suggest that the ex-Kano State governor may be planning to defect to the ruling APC—an idea that is already stirring controversy among top APC members.
Party insiders say that a deal believed to have been brokered by President Tinubu with Kwankwaso is creating internal rifts, particularly with APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and a Senate leader eyeing the 2027 governorship ticket in Kano. The planned meeting between Tinubu and Kwankwaso is expected once the President returns from his official trips to France and the UK.
Three NNPP federal lawmakers—Senator Sumaila Kawu and Honourables Aliyu Sani Madaki and Kabiru Usman Rurum—have already met with Ganduje ahead of their formal defection. This has heightened fears of favoritism and political displacement within the APC ranks.
Despite denial from the NNPP, the Kano APC Chairman, Abdullahi Abbas, confirmed Kwankwaso’s planned defection but cautioned against giving undue advantage to new entrants. He warned that the party should not become a refuge for those with legal or ethical challenges. Abbas stressed that individuals facing investigations from the EFCC or ICPC should not expect protection within APC.
The main issue appears to be a brewing clash of ambitions. While Tinubu seeks Kwankwaso’s political influence in Kano to strengthen APC’s chances in 2027, others in the party fear their long-standing loyalty could be undermined. Sources claim some defecting lawmakers have been promised automatic tickets for re-election—further fueling resentment.
One source stated that if Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf follows Kwankwaso into APC, it could endanger the governorship dreams of Senate Deputy President, Barau Jibrin, a key APC figure from the state.
In response to the situation, Kwankwaso’s spokesman, Ladipo Johnson, acknowledged that discussions are ongoing, but said the former NNPP flagbearer is still consulting with stakeholders. He added that any major decision would be formally announced and discussed within the party structure.
Meanwhile, APC’s national secretariat appears to be in the dark. APC Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Duro Meseko, denied any knowledge of Kwankwaso’s planned defection, stating, “I am not aware of such move.”
As uncertainty continues, it is clear that Kwankwaso’s possible entry into APC has shaken internal dynamics, raising questions about loyalty, fairness, and the balance of power ahead of the 2027 elections.
