KANO, Nigeria (FN), Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has formally submitted his nomination form to the National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress in Abuja, emerging as the party’s sole candidate for the 2027 governorship election. Yusuf, accompanied by former Kano Governor Ibrahim Shekarau, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Senator Kawu Sumaila, and other dignitaries, described his second term bid as “a fresh call to service,” pledging expanded urban renewal projects, rural development, stronger support for agriculture, and youth empowerment. He promised greater investments in feeder roads, water supply, healthcare centers, and schools in rural communities, while reaffirming his commitment to improving education and healthcare delivery across the state.
Yusuf rose under the Kwankwasiyya movement and was elected governor in 2023 under the New Nigeria People’s Party before defecting to the APC in January 2026, citing internal crises in his former party. His defection, along with several lawmakers and local government chairmen, sparked controversy, with NNPP leaders accusing him of betrayal and joining APC out of fear of losing in 2027. APC leaders, however, praised his nomination as a demonstration of unity, with party chieftain Faizu Alfindiki describing the process as transparent and inclusive. NNPP leaders condemned the move as personal survival rather than service to Kano people, while internal APC factions have raised concerns over consensus arrangements that sidelined other aspirants.
On social media, supporters celebrated Yusuf’s nomination with hashtags such as #AbbaGoAgain, praising his urban renewal projects and education reforms. Critics accused him of opportunism, arguing that his defection undermines trust in political parties. Youth activists warned that APC’s growing dominance risks stifling democracy, calling for alternatives such as independent candidates.
Yusuf’s candidacy consolidates APC’s grip on Kano, a key northern battleground, while opposition parties including NNPP and ADC face challenges in mounting credible resistance. Analysts caution that defections, consensus arrangements, and APC’s expanding influence could erode democratic competition in Nigeria as the country heads toward the 2027 elections.
