Kano, Nigeria — The Director‑General of Media and Publicity at the Kano Government House, Sanusi Tofa, has stirred political debate with his claim that former Kano State Governor and NNPP leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, is quietly working to boost President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s chances of winning reelection in 2027.
Speaking in a recent interview, Tofa described Kwankwaso’s political moves as inconsistent and ultimately favorable to the ruling APC. He dismissed Kwankwaso’s much talked about partnership with Labour Party’s Peter Obi as “temporary and unsustainable,” arguing that the NNPP lacks the strength to stand alone in the next general election.
Tofa went further, alleging that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf had already opened discussions with Tinubu about a possible defection to the APC, with Kwankwaso fully aware of the talks. He claimed Kwankwaso even scheduled a meeting with the president but later cancelled due to travel abroad and never rescheduled.
According to Tofa, Kwankwaso’s shifting alliances from Peter Obi to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, show “political confusion.” He suggested these moves are less about building a strong opposition and more about positioning Kwankwaso closer to the APC. In his view, Kwankwaso’s influence in Kano, if aligned with the ruling party, could significantly strengthen Tinubu’s reelection prospects.
Political observers note that without strong grassroots structures, the NNPP may struggle to remain relevant. While an Obi to Kwankwaso alliance could energize opposition voters, it faces hurdles in Kano, where Kwankwaso’s base is strong but not easily transferable to Obi. If Kwankwaso’s camp leans toward APC, it could consolidate Tinubu’s support in northern Nigeria.
Kwankwaso himself has not publicly responded to these claims, but Tofa’s remarks highlight the fluid and unpredictable nature of Nigeria’s political landscape as the 2027 elections draw closer.
