

By Editor Mahmoud Muhammad Kano
A recent rally organized to welcome Abbah Kabiru Yusuf, the Governor of Kano State, was marked by disappointingly low attendance. Only a handful of supporters showed up to escort him from Aminu Kano International Airport to Lodge Road, raising concerns about his dwindling popularity.
The low turnout is seen as a significant setback for Yusuf, especially after his defection from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). His former mentor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has been actively working to undermine Yusuf’s influence, and it seems his efforts are gaining traction.
Kwankwaso has invited Gawuna to replace Yusuf as his loyalist, and this move has sent shockwaves across Kano. The emergence of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has further complicated the political landscape, with Madugu, Kwankwaso, and Gawuna forming a formidable alliance.
Yusuf’s decision to join the APC has been met with mixed reactions, with some seeing it as a strategic move to strengthen his position, while others view it as a betrayal of his former party. Whatever the case, it’s clear that his support base is shrinking.
The low attendance at the rally is a stark contrast to the massive crowds that welcomed Yusuf in the past. His popularity had been on the rise, but it seems his recent moves have alienated some of his core supporters.
Kwankwaso’s Kwankwasiyya movement, which was once a dominant force in Kano politics, is regaining momentum. His loyalists are rallying behind him, and it’s clear that they’re not going to let Yusuf’s defection go unchallenged .
The political landscape in Kano is becoming increasingly complex, with multiple factions vying for power. The 2027 elections are still a long way off, but it’s clear that the battle for supremacy has already begun.
Yusuf’s APC allies are trying to downplay the significance of the low turnout, but it’s hard to ignore the fact that his support is waning. The governor will need to take drastic measures to regain the trust of his people.
In the meantime, Kwankwaso and his allies are celebrating their newfound momentum. They see this as an opportunity to reclaim their dominance in Kano politics and are unlikely to let up anytime soon.
As the political drama unfolds, one thing is clear: Kano is in for a wild ride in the coming months.
Analyst, and also veteran Journalist, Abubakar Bawa told The Northern Star online newspapers that Abbah Kabiru Yusuf, used his return to weight his support, but already the damage has been done. He said Abbah most go back to drawing board if really he is gearing toward his second term bid .