Kwankwaso celebrates Abba Yusuf on 63rd birthday as defection rumours lingers

By Samuel Solomon

Rabiu Kwankwaso, national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has sent “warm wishes” to Abba Yusuf, governor of Kano, on his 63rd birthday.

In a message on Tuesday, Kwankwaso reflected on their long-standing political relationship, noting Yusuf’s various roles through the years.

He said Yusuf served as his personal assistant during his first term as governor and as a minister, as principal private assistant and commissioner during his second tenure.

Kwankwaso praised Yusuf’s contributions to the vision and development programmes pursued in Kano, and commended his dedication to the progress of the region.

The ex-governor prayed that God will grant Yusuf wisdom and good health.

“I reflect on the many years of our shared political journey, during which he served in various important capacities – first as my Personal Assistant in my first term and as Minister, and then as Principal Private Assistant, and later as Commissioner during my second tenure, and now as Governor – through which he contributed to the vision and programmes we pursued for the development of Kano State,” the statement reads.

“I pray that this new year grants him wisdom, good health, and clarity of purpose.”

Kwankwaso’s statement comes amid reports that Yusuf may be considering a defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) without the endorsement of the NNPP national leader.

Yusuf is the only governor elected on the NNPP platform.

Kwankwaso recently said he would only switch to another political camp if he is guaranteed a presidential or vice-presidential ticket.