A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has warned that internal conflict could erupt within the party as political dynamics around Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf continue to shift, particularly amid reports of his possible defection from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the ruling APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The APC figure, who spoke to journalists in Kano, said that unresolved tensions within the party — partly sparked by manoeuvres to attract Governor Yusuf — could lead to an intra-party war unless strategic and unified leadership decisions are made.
Governor Yusuf, elected on the NNPP platform in 2023, has been at the centre of political speculation for weeks. Sources told Daily Trust that he is expected to formally join the APC soon, a move that could reshape party alignments in the north-west geopolitical zone.
Pressure for his defection intensified after negotiations with NNPP founder Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso stalled.
Kwankwaso has reportedly voiced reservations about the proposed switch to the APC, while some members of the Kwankwasiyya movement remain divided on the political direction.
The APC chieftain said that the party’s leadership must manage internal interests and loyalties carefully to avoid factionalism.
He cautioned that competing ambitions and unresolved political rivalries — especially between supporters of Governor Yusuf and other APC stakeholders — could undermine cohesion.
Meanwhile, a growing number of APC lawmakers in Kano State have publicly endorsed Governor Yusuf’s potential defection, arguing that remaining with the NNPP could expose elected officials to legal and political risks amid ongoing leadership disputes in the opposition party.
Political analysts say the situation reflects broader strategic calculations ahead of the 2027 elections, where alignment with the ruling party could offer electoral advantages.
However, they also note that abrupt shifts in political loyalty can spark internal resistance within party ranks if not accompanied by clear consensus building.
The APC chieftain’s warning underscores mounting pressure on party leadership to navigate the governor’s possible entry into the APC without alienating existing members or escalating factional disputes ahead of key primaries and campaign preparations.
As discussions continue, partisan observers are watching closely to see whether the APC can consolidate support and manage internal ambitions while positioning itself for a competitive showing in the 2027 general elections.
