“Even Now, It Still Feels Like a Dream” — Kwankwaso on Son-in-Law’s Defection to APC

Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, described Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as shocking and difficult to comprehend.

Speaking in his first detailed interview since the move with BBC Hausa, Kwankwaso said:

“It came as a big shock. Even now, it still feels like a dream. I keep asking myself what really happened and who offended who, but I have not found a convincing answer.”

He denied any prior agreement or political arrangement behind the defection, adding that the issues raised by the governor could have been resolved through dialogue within the NNPP. Kwankwaso expressed confidence that time would reveal the consequences of Yusuf’s decision, describing the alignment with the political camp of former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje as deeply disappointing.

On claims that the NNPP is unstable, he rejected the notion, saying the party remains intact and peaceful. He also said that those who leave the party cannot claim ownership of the Kwankwasiyya ideology while abandoning its political base.

Regarding his personal relationship with the governor, who is married to his daughter, Kwankwaso said it was too early to tell how the development would affect family ties.

“This is not the end of my political journey. It has strengthened my resolve to continue contributing to Nigeria’s political development,” he said, assuring supporters that the movement remains focused and resilient.