Political tensions have escalated within the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) following reports that Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf is considering defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC) a move strongly opposed by the party’s national leadership and its founder, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. The reports have triggered internal discord within the NNPP, pitting supporters of the governor against loyalists of the Kwankwasiyya movement, as the party leadership publicly distanced itself from any defection plans. In a statement issued on behalf of the NNPP at both the state and national levels, Kano State Chairman Hashim Suleiman Dungurawa said the party was aware of the political developments but firmly rejected any move to defect to the APC. “We are fully aware of the developments in Kano State concerning some individuals planning to defect to the APC,” Dungurawa said. “The Kano State party, the national leadership, and our national leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, do not approve of this move.” Dungurawa said the NNPP leadership had made repeated efforts to persuade those involved to remain in the party, citing its responsibility to the people of Kano State. “We have done everything within our capacity to urge patience and restraint, in the interest of the party and the people who entrusted us with leadership,” he said. He appealed directly to Governor Yusuf and others allegedly involved to reconsider, urging them to remain within the party they were elected under. Dungurawa also dismissed claims that party officials were deliberately pitching the governor against Kwankwaso, challenging anyone with evidence to present it publicly. Reacting separately, the Director General of Media and Publicity, Sanusi Bature, acknowledged the existence of internal disagreements but declined to comment on the defection reports. “Yes, there are issues within the party, and we are aware of the disagreements,” Bature said. “However, I cannot comment on any matter relating to defection at this time.” He added that the NNPP leadership was addressing the matter internally and advised the public to avoid speculation. The party leadership urged residents of Kano State to remain calm and continue their lawful activities, warning members against associating with documents allegedly circulated by what it described as “mischief makers.” The unfolding rift is expected to shape political alignments in Kano State as parties reposition ahead of future electoral contests.