SUNTV Global Channel | January 24, 2026
The Kano State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has said the controversy over a possible “automatic ticket” for Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf will only be addressed after the governor formally completes his defection into the ruling party.
The Kano APC Chairman, Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas Sanusi, made this known while reacting to Governor Yusuf’s resignation from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), a development that has intensified speculation about his imminent move to the APC.
Speaking in an interview with Daily Trust, Abbas confirmed that the APC in Kano is already preparing to receive the governor and his political structure, describing the expected defection as a major political boost ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“He is welcome to our party. Politically, no right-thinking politician will reject a political addition,” Abbas said. “Politics is a game of numbers, and any move that strengthens the party’s base is an advantage.”
He stressed that the APC maintains an open-door policy, noting that anyone who has “seen the beauty of the party” and chooses to join will be accommodated.
On the sensitive issue of an automatic ticket for Governor Yusuf, the APC chairman dismissed the debate as premature.
“That is not an issue for now. It is something to be discussed after all processes have been completed and whoever is coming has finalized his defection,” he stated.
Abbas further revealed that the governor is not expected to defect alone, hinting that several elected local government chairmen, councillors and other political office holders are likely to move with him into the APC.
“This goes beyond individual ambition. It is about positioning the APC for victory in the 2027 elections,” he said, adding that internal consultations would be carried out to integrate both old and new members without triggering crises.
While acknowledging that incumbent governors rarely lose party primaries in Nigeria, Abbas maintained that no option has been ruled out.
“If circumstances demand a primary election, so be it. But the issue of automatic ticket is not our major concern at this stage,” he added.
Addressing the delay surrounding the governor’s defection, Abbas dismissed months of speculation as media-driven rumours, explaining that such a political move requires careful consultation.
“A governor’s defection is not something you wake up and do. There are processes and high-level consultations involved,” he said.
He concluded by urging APC members in Kano to remain calm and united, warning against internal conflicts.
“Let us focus on the success of the party. Our leadership will continue to promote peaceful coexistence and internal stability,” Abbas said, reaffirming the APC’s commitment to governance reforms aimed at “making Nigerians smile again.”
— SUNTV Global Channel Reporting
