Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has officially resigned his membership of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).
The development was confirmed by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, who presented Yusuf’s resignation letter to the party.
According to Tofa, the letter was addressed to the Chairman of Diso-Chiranchi Ward of the NNPP in Gwale Local Government Area and takes effect from January 23, 2026.
“I write with a deep sense of gratitude to formally notify the leadership of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) of my decision to resign my membership of the party,” the governor stated in the letter. “This decision takes effect from Sunday, 25 January 2026.”
Governor Yusuf explained that his decision was prompted by prolonged internal crises within the party and the need to safeguard the broader interests of Kano State residents.
“In recent times, the party has been confronted with persistent internal challenges arising from leadership disagreements and ongoing legal processes, many of which are presently before the courts for judicial determination,” the governor noted.
He added that the disputes had deepened internal divisions and weakened cohesion within the NNPP.
“The growing disenfranchisement among party members has created deep divisions within the party structure, resulting in cracks that appear increasingly irreconcilable and have generated uncertainty at both state and national levels,” Yusuf said.
Guided by Public Interest
The governor said the decision followed careful reflection and was guided strictly by public interest.
“After careful reflection, and without prejudice to the party’s capacity to resolve its internal challenges, I have come to the conclusion that my resignation is in the best interest of the people of Kano State,” he declared.
He stressed that the move was not driven by bitterness or hostility.
“This decision is taken in good faith, without any ill will, and with a continued commitment to peace, unity, and the progress of Kano State,” he added.
Governor Yusuf also expressed appreciation to the NNPP for the support and opportunity it provided him during his time in the party.
“I remain sincerely appreciative of the opportunity given to me by the party, its leadership, and members across Kano State to be part of its political journey since 2022, as well as the support, goodwill, and cooperation extended to me during my time in the party,” he said.
Reports indicate that Yusuf is exiting the NNPP alongside 21 members of the Kano State House of Assembly, eight members of the House of Representatives, and 44 local government chairmen across the state.
Confirming receipt of the resignation letter, the NNPP Secretary of Diso-Chiranchi Ward, Hon. Kabiru Zubairu, acknowledged the governor’s contributions to the state.
“I wish to concur with His Excellency on the lingering crisis in our party,” Zubairu said. “Though we are trying our best to contain it, we have no option but to accept the resignation of one of the most performing governors produced by the NNPP.”
Zubairu commended Yusuf’s achievements in infrastructure, urban renewal, healthcare, education and economic empowerment.
Meanwhile, the governor has yet to formally announce his next political move, though speculation is rife that he may defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), following his recent meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Political analysts say the development could significantly reshape Kano State’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections, particularly if Yusuf’s allies and supporters follow him into a new party platform.