Security has been significantly reinforced in and around the Kano State Government House following reports of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s planned defection from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a move that has triggered strong political backlash.

Armed security personnel were seen deployed at strategic points within the Government House and surrounding areas on Sunday, as authorities moved to prevent a breakdown of law and order amid rising tension among political actors and supporters.

The planned defection has drawn sharp criticism from the NNPP leadership in Kano, which described the move as a betrayal of the party’s mandate and insisted that no approval was granted by either the state or national leadership. Prominent figures within the Kwankwasiyya movement have also expressed opposition, warning that the decision could destabilise the state’s political landscape.

Sources close to the development said the security build-up was a precautionary measure in response to threats of protests and counter-mobilisation by rival political groups.

Meanwhile, consultations are reportedly ongoing at the highest political levels, with conflicting reports on whether the governor’s defection will proceed as planned or be delayed to allow further dialogue.

The situation has heightened political tension in Kano, a key battleground state, as alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections continue to take shape.