Kano senator eyes APC switch, questions NDC presidential ticket's chances

Speculation is intensifying around Senator Rufa’i Hanga of the Kano Central District, a member of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), potentially defecting to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This follows recent meetings Hanga held with Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano and the APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda.

“

In the north, Obi has Kwankwaso as running mate, and Kwankwaso is only popular in Kano, and even now, his popularity is 50/50 because previously, while we were in the ADC, we had people in Katsina, Jigawa, and Kaduna, but now we no longer have them because those people refused to join us in the NDC and remain in the ADC.

Following these high-profile meetings, Hanga publicly cast doubt on the electoral viability of the NDC's presidential ticket, comprising Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, for the 2027 general election. He stated that a critical analysis of the current political landscape suggests neither candidate possesses the necessary support for a presidential victory.

Hanga specifically addressed the situation in the north, noting that while Kwankwaso is Obi's running mate, Kwankwaso's popularity is now uncertain even in his home base of Kano. He mentioned that key figures who were previously aligned with their party (ADC) in states like Katsina, Jigawa, and Kaduna have not joined the NDC, diminishing their regional reach.

“

Peter Obi can only win in Anambra and get some percentage of votes in some states in the south

Political analysts interpret Hanga's successive meetings and public statements as strong indicators of his intention to leave his longtime ally, Mr. Kwankwaso. The potential defection is reportedly linked to internal party disputes, including Hanga losing his senatorial ticket and being bypassed in the nomination process for the NDC's deputy governorship candidate. Hanga himself suggested a shift in perspective, stating he now understands Governor Yusuf's decision to part ways with Kwankwaso and join the APC, indicating he would not consider such a move a betrayal.

“

Now, if I leave Kwankwaso, nobody can say I betrayed anybody. If anyone says I betrayed someone, I will recommend that person to be sent to Goron Dutse Prison or Dawanau Psychiatric Hospital.