Yusuf’s APC Defection Hits Deadlock Over 2027 Ticket Demands

Kano State politics is at a crossroads as negotiations over Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s rumored defection from the NNPP to the APC hit a deadlock. Yusuf is demanding a written guarantee of the APC’s 2027 governorship ticket, influence over federal appointments, and control of Kano’s political machinery. The APC leadership has rejected these conditions, insisting on internal democracy and no automatic tickets. Power struggles involving APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, and the Presidency have further complicated talks. With 2027 approaching, Yusuf faces a risky choice between staying with NNPP or joining APC without firm assurances.

Ex-Kano Anti-Graft Boss Compares Corrupt Nigerian Politicians to Deadly Drug Cartels

Former Chairman of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC), Muhyi Magaji Rimin Gado, says combating corruption in Nigeria is as dangerous as confronting Colombian drug cartels. Speaking at the launch of the 19th Compendium on 100 High-Profile Corruption Cases in Lagos, he revealed that investigations during his tenure exposed billions in diverted public funds, fraudulent PPP projects, and illicit IGR schemes linked to powerful political figures, including former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje. Magaji warned that corruption fuels poverty, insecurity, and banditry in the North, describing corrupt politicians as ruthless actors willing to kill to protect stolen wealth. He alleged that some policemen are being used against him despite having legal authorization to prosecute cases. The event, organized by HEDA to mark International Anti-Corruption Day, emphasized youth involvement in shaping a future of integrity.

Rights Group Condemns Alleged Plan To Create Parallel Hisbah In Kano, Warns Of Chaos

A human rights organisation, AHRCVDI, has denounced an alleged attempt by allies of former Kano Governor Abdullahi Ganduje to establish a rival Hisbah-style outfit called “Hisba Independent Fisabilillahi.” The group described the move as illegal, unconstitutional, and a threat to public order, warning it could trigger clashes between competing enforcement groups. AHRCVDI urged Governor Abba Yusuf and security agencies to immediately ban the group, arrest its promoters, and prevent the emergence of unregulated vigilante structures that could endanger citizens and destabilise Kano State.

HEDA Demands Immediate Release of Ex-Kano Anti-Graft Chairman Muhuyi Magaji, Condemns Police Arrest

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) has condemned the arrest of former Kano State anti-graft chairman Muhuyi Magaji, calling it politically motivated and unlawful. Magaji was taken into custody by heavily armed police officers who stormed his law firm and transferred him to Abuja on the orders of the Inspector General of Police. HEDA noted that Magaji has been repeatedly targeted since exposing alleged corruption linked to former governor Abdullahi Ganduje. The organisation accused the police of political interference, warning that such actions threaten democracy and due process. HEDA demanded a public explanation for his arrest and urged his immediate release if no lawful basis exists.

Ganduje Berates Kano Govt Over Arrest Demand, Calls Allegations ‘Reckless and Baseless’

Former APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, has slammed the Kano State Government for demanding his arrest over alleged comments linked to the creation of a militia group. He dismissed the call as politically driven and without substance.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Ganduje described the arrest demand as “reckless, baseless, and a clear reflection of the governor’s desperation and incompetence.”

He further accused Governor Abba Yusuf’s administration of abandoning its duty to protect lives and property, noting that the government has failed to address the rising insecurity affecting several local government areas across Kano State.

#Ganduje #KanoState #NigeriaPolitics #APC

New Era in Kano! Governor Abba Yusuf Inaugurates Reconstituted Kano Council of Emirs Led by Sanusi II

Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has officially inaugurated the reconstituted Kano Council of Emirs, restoring the traditional structure with Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II serving as Chairman. The council also includes Emirs from Gaya, Karaye, and Rano.

This development was revealed in a statement by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Monday in Kano.

The inauguration follows the signing of the Kano Emirates Council Law (Repeal Bill) 2024, which dissolved the five emirate councils established under former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, returning Kano to its historic unified emirate structure.

Speaking at the ceremony held at the Government House Coronation Hall, Governor Yusuf emphasized that reinstating the Council aims to strengthen peace, stability, and development across Kano State.

He described the traditional institution as “a pillar of history, guardian of values, custodian of heritage, and an indispensable partner in governance.”

Governor Yusuf added that the Council is expected to serve as a central platform where royal fathers can meet, deliberate, and provide meaningful guidance on issues affecting the people.

The Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, expressed confidence that the restored Council will significantly contribute to the state's development.

Earlier, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Chieftaincy Affairs, Prof. Tijjani Muhammad Naniya, traced the historical roots of the Kano Emirate, highlighting its over 700-year legacy of unity under one Emir.

Responding on behalf of the Emirs, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II commended Governor Yusuf's leadership and pledged the full support of the Emirates toward the progress and stability of Kano State.

Kano govt sues Ganduje, sons, others over alleged N4.49bn fraud.

The Kano State Government has filed a lawsuit against former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, two of his sons, and several others before the State High Court over an alleged N4.49 billion fraud.

The suit seeks to recover the state’s 20 per cent equity stake in Dala Inland Dry Port Limited and to reclaim public funds totalling N4,492,387,013.76, which were allegedly misappropriated.

Filed on October 13, 2025, the case lists as defendants Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje; his sons, Umar Abdullahi Umar and Muhammad Abdullahi Umar; Abubakar Sahabo Bawuro, his former Special Adviser; Hassan Bello, former Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council; Adamu Aliyu Sanda, a legal practitioner; and Dala Inland Dry Port Limited.

The defendants face a ten-count charge, including criminal conspiracy, misappropriation of public funds, breach of trust, and conflict of interest.

According to the charge sheet, the defendants allegedly conspired to fraudulently transfer 80 per cent of the dry port’s shares, including the state’s 20 per cent equity, to private interests under a shell company known as City Green Enterprise.

Prosecutors allege that the transaction was deliberately structured to conceal the true ownership of the port project, which was initially conceived to boost Kano’s economic infrastructure.

“The defendants deliberately hijacked a federal initiative and used proxies and fake entities to conceal the diversion of public assets meant for the people of Kano State,” the prosecution stated.

The prosecution further claims that over N4.49 billion in public funds was siphoned under the guise of infrastructure development at the dry port, including the construction of a dual carriageway, electricity, and fencing.

Kwankwaso Signals Conditional Return to APC, Stresses NNPP Must Benefit

Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), has signaled his willingness to return to the All Progressives Congress (APC), but emphasized that such a move would only happen under “strong conditions.”

The former Kano State governor made the declaration on Thursday while receiving Buhari Bakwana, a former aide to ex-Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, who visited him with APC representatives from all 44 local government areas of Kano State.

Kwankwaso insisted that any discussion about rejoining APC or merging must clearly outline the benefits for the NNPP.

“If you are asking us to join APC, you must tell us what NNPP will gain,” he said.

The NNPP leader stressed that his party would not allow itself to be “used and dumped,” recalling his role in establishing APC in 2013 and the political persecution he and his allies endured at the time.

“We have gubernatorial candidates in all states and full structures nationwide. What will you offer them if we join? We are ready to join APC under strong conditions and promises. We will not allow anyone to use us and later dump us,” he added.


Kwankwaso also reflected on past frustrations with both APC and PDP, accusing the parties of breaching agreements.

“Eight years of APC under the immediate past President Muhammadu Buhari gave us nothing, not even appreciation. In PDP, we asked for just a zonal party chairman, but they refused. We left peacefully, and today we are strong and have integrity,” he noted.

The statement contrasts with his earlier remarks at the NNPP National Executive Council meeting, where he pledged to remain with the party despite swirling rumors of defection.

Reacting to Kwankwaso’s comments, Kano APC State Secretary Hon. Zakari Ibrahim Sarina said the party would welcome him back, provided he abides by APC principles.

“Kwankwaso can’t come to APC to control the party that has national spread. Remember, APC is not NNPP, which he established and controls. We are ready to welcome him because his return would be an advantage to the ruling party. It will also promote peace and development in Kano,” Sarina added.

Wike Slams N5m Fines on Ganduje, Idiagbon, Oyinlola, Others for Illegal Land Conversion.

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has imposed N5 million fines on former APC Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje and several prominent Nigerians for illegally altering the use of their properties in Abuja.

The sanctions affect both living and deceased persons, as well as public and private institutions, accused of converting their lands without approval, thereby violating the right of occupancy terms.

In a newspaper notice, Wike directed all affected allottees to pay the penalty fee within 30 days, by September 10, 2025. The order followed a review of land use in 15 streets across Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse 2, Garki 1, and Garki 2. He also approved the issuance of new title documents reflecting updated land use for a fresh 99-year term once conditions are met.

The FCT administration alleged that Ganduje converted a residence at Adetokunbo Ademola, Wuse 2, into a banking hall without approval. A property at Gana Street, Maitama, belonging to the late Gen. Tunde Idiagbon, was turned into Serendib Hotel and Suites, while former Osun State Governor Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola allegedly converted a residence at Yakubu Gowon Crescent, Asokoro, into Zhouyi Hotel.

Two former Chief Justices of Nigeria were also listed. Justice Atanda Fatai-Williams’ Maitama residence was reportedly changed into a wood factory and shopping centre, while Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar’s land was converted into a supermarket.

Senator Shehu Sani was sanctioned for turning a residence at Aminu Kano Crescent into a showroom. Others include former Governors Forum DG Okauru Okauru (residence converted to showroom), Lt. Gen. Rufus Kupolati (residence to gym), former FCT Minister Abba Gana (residence at Usuma, Maitama, redesigned into a mall), the NNPC (residential property to NNPC Medical Services), and the Nigeria Police (public place converted for POWA use).

We Have Been Hearing Rumour About A Frosty Relationship Between Shettima, Tinubu’ – Ajomale.

The election of Nentawe Yilwatda as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress has alleviated growing speculation about a rift between President Bola Tinubu and Vice President, Kashim Shettima, particularly concerns over Tinubu dropping his deputy as his running mate in 2027.
Vote Okpebholo To Birth A Functional State - Shettima Tells Edo Citizens
Before Yilwatda’s emergence, Naija News understands that rumours of a strained relationship between the President and his Vice intensified following the appointment of Ali Bukar Dalori from Borno State as acting chairman after Abdullahi Ganduje’s resignation.


According to Sunday Sun, party insiders believe the choice of a substantive chairman from the North Central zone signals a stabilising move for the Tinubu-Shettima ticket ahead of the next general elections.

Observers say Yilwatda’s election strengthens APC’s zoning balance, which traditionally avoids concentrating power in one or two regions.

With Tinubu from the South-West, Shettima from the North-East, and now Yilwatda from the North Central, the arrangement is seen as equitable. Analysts argue this boosts Shettima’s chances of retaining the vice-presidential slot and consolidating his influence as the undisputed leader of the North-East zone.

Yilwatda, a Christian from North Central, is expected to help the party project inclusivity and address criticisms over its Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket.

With Tinubu and Shettima as Muslims, Yilwatda’s emergence as APC chairman introduces a Christian leader into the party’s top hierarchy, potentially making the ruling party more appealing to Christian voters, especially in North Central states with significant Christian populations.

Ajomale Dismisses Rift Allegations
Reacting to the speculations, a close associate of the President and former APC Chairman in Lagos State, Henry Ajomale, dismissed claims of a frosty relationship between Tinubu and Shettima.

Speaking with Sunday Sun in a telephone interview, he said, “Since the former National Chairman, Abdulahi Adamu, is from the North Central, Nasarawa state precisely, it is only fair that the replacement must come from the zone to complete their tenure.

The Presidency has denied reports that George Akume resigned as Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) to become APC National Chairman. Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga confirmed Akume remains SGF and no new appointments have been made. The clarification follows the resignation of APC Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, who cited personal reasons. Ali Bukar Dalori is now Acting Chairman pending a formal NEC decision.

2027: APC GROUP MOUNTS PRESSURE ON TINUBU TO SELECT DOGARA AS RUNNING MATE.

The North-East Coalition of All Progressives Congress (APC) Support Groups has recommended Yakubu Dogara, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, as the running mate to President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

This recommendation comes amid growing speculation over Vice-President Kashim Shettima’s future, following last week’s North-East APC zonal meeting, which ended in chaos.

At the meeting, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje and his delegation were accused of deliberately sidelining Shettima while endorsing Tinubu’s second-term bid.

But in a swift reaction, the Kano chapter of the party dismissed claims that Ganduje is eyeing Shettima’s seat, blaming supporters of Rabiu Kwankwaso for fuelling the rumours.

“They have been trying to capitalize on any loophole in the APC, but found none,” a party official said.

At a press briefing in Gombe on Monday, Sha’abdini Bello, chairman of the coalition, said Dogara’s endorsement was based on national unity, inclusive leadership, and his performance in the 8th assembly.

His words: “Dogara’s tenure in the 8th Assembly was marked by inclusive leadership as evidenced by his appointments, which represented every state in the North-East and the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria.

“His proven track record as a unifying figure makes him a trusted and tested leader for the region and the nation.”

Dogara, a Christian from Bauchi state, has long been a proponent of a Muslim-Christian ticket.

The coalition reaffirmed its loyalty to President Tinubu and the APC leadership, calling for unity and discipline in line with the party’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.

It also urged the federal government to expedite the Akwanga-Gombe Road project, describing it as a vital infrastructure link between the North-East and the rest of the country.