Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso is reportedly in talks with President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) over a possible defection from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), but he is not ready to defect unless certain demands are met.
For months, APC leaders have tried to convince Kwankwaso to join their party as part of their strategy ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
He remains one of the strongest political figures in the North, with a large number of loyal supporters, especially in Kano and other key northern states.
His influence is seen as an advantage for any party preparing for the next general election.
Kwankwaso and Tinubu have reportedly held several meetings, but the former Kano governor reportedly insisted on some conditions.
One of them was his removal of Abdullahi Ganduje as the APC National Chairman, a matter that has been addressed following Ganduje’s resignation.
However, Kwankwaso still wants to control the APC structure in Kano and seeks a solid position in return for his loyalty.
Sources said he reportedly wants to be Vice President if he is to leave NNPP.
He said this offer would help him keep his large political following intact.
This request appears to be gaining attention within the APC, especially with talks that Vice President Kashim Shettima might not run on the same ticket with Tinubu in 2027.
There is growing speculation within the party that Shettima may no longer have the full support of the president.
A party leader, Salihu Isa Nataro, recently stated that Shettima should consider stepping aside if he truly wants the president’s agenda to succeed.
He advised Shettima to announce his decision publicly and promise to help campaign for the president’s re-election from the North-East.
Kwankwaso’s possible defection is also affecting the NNPP.
Some lawmakers from Kano have already dumped the party for APC, citing unresolved internal problems.
While nothing has been made official, all signs point to Kwankwaso taking a bold political step.
For now, APC leaders are watching closely as talks continue and decisions are expected in the coming weeks.
