Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has officially resigned from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), attributing his decision to escalating internal crises within the party and the need to safeguard the overall interest of the people of Kano State.
The governor communicated his decision in a resignation letter addressed to the Chairman of the NNPP in Diso–Chiranchi Ward, Gwale Local Government Area, stating that his withdrawal from the party takes effect from Sunday, January 25, 2026.
In a statement released by his spokesperson, Sanusi Bature, Governor Yusuf expressed appreciation to the party for the platform and support it provided him.
“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, with effect from Sunday, 25 January 2026,” the letter stated.
The governor acknowledged the backing he received from the party’s leadership and members throughout his political journey.
“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.”
Governor Yusuf explained that his decision was largely influenced by persistent internal conflicts and legal disputes that have continued to destabilise the party at both the state and national levels.
“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.”
According to him, the unresolved disputes have weakened unity within the party and widened divisions among members.
“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.”
He emphasised that the decision was reached after careful consideration 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.”
Governor Yusuf added that the move was made without 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.”
Along with the governor, 21 members of the Kano State House of Assembly, eight members of the House of Representatives, and 44 local government chairmen have also resigned their membership of the NNPP.
The resignation letter was acknowledged by the party’s Secretary in Diso–Chiranchi Ward, Hon. Kabiru Zubairu, who praised the governor’s performance in governance, particularly in infrastructure development, urban renewal, healthcare delivery, education, and economic empowerment.
“I wish to concur with His Excellency on the lingering crisis in our party. Though we are trying our best to contain it, we have no option than to accept the resignation of one of the most performing governors produced by the NNPP,” he said.
What you should know
Governor Abba Yusuf’s resignation marks a significant political shift in Kano State, as the NNPP loses not only a sitting governor but also a large bloc of elected officials and local government leaders.
The development underscores the deep internal rifts within the party, which have been compounded by leadership disputes and court cases.
Such a mass exit could reshape political alignments in Kano ahead of future elections and weaken the NNPP’s influence at both state and national levels, while placing greater focus on how internal party crises can impact governance stability.
