Loyalists of former Kano State governor Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso were conspicuously absent on Sunday during Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s first public appearance since reports emerged of his planned defection from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The development comes amid rising political tensions in Kano State, where Governor Yusuf is expected to formalize his switch to the APC, a move that could significantly reshape the state’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The absence of key figures aligned with the Kwankwasiyya movement, a powerful support base loyal to Kwankwaso, highlights growing divisions within the NNPP. Kwankwaso, who remains the NNPP’s national leader, has publicly declared he will “laugh last” amid ongoing defection pressures, signaling that the political tussle is far from over.

Political observers say the standoff reflects deeper internal rifts within the NNPP, as Governor Yusuf’s alleged move toward the APC sparks debates about loyalty, party cohesion, and strategic alliances.