A major political shift is unfolding in Kano State as Mustapha Hamza Buhari Bakwana, a close confidant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has dumped the ruling party for the opposition New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).
Bakwana, a renowned grassroots mobiliser and former political adviser to Ganduje during his tenure as governor, officially joined the NNPP on Wednesday, signaling a significant defection in the North-West political landscape.
He also resigned his position as Senior Legislative Aide to Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, as part of his move.
Speaking to a crowd of loyal supporters in Kano, Bakwana expressed deep disappointment with the APC, accusing the party leadership of abandonment and betrayal.
“We gave everything to the APC — time, loyalty, sweat. But what did we get in return? Silence, neglect and betrayal. Enough is enough,” he declared.
He went further to praise NNPP leader and former Kano State governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, describing him as a political leader who rewards loyalty and understands the needs of his people.
“We’ve chosen to pitch our tent with Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, a man who doesn’t forget his people. He understands the game of politics and plays it with honour,” Bakwana added.
Bakwana’s defection is seen as a blow to Ganduje’s political camp and may reflect growing discontent within the APC ranks in Kano ahead of the 2027 general elections. Political observers say the move could further realign forces in the state and pose challenges for the ruling party’s dominance in the region.
The APC is yet to issue an official reaction to the defection.
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