By AMINU GARKO

Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano State on Monday defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), leading a mass realignment involving 34 lawmakers, 44 Local Governments Chairmen, and political appointees.

The move followed consultations and an assessment of Kano’s future aspirations.

Yusuf cited the need to work with President Bola Tinubu to accelerate development and deliver democracy dividends.

He described the defection as a choice for progress over pride, emphasising the Renewed Hope Agenda’s positive impact nationwide.

The Governor announced plans for a Kano Elders Council to promote stability, unity, and good governance.

He commended APC leaders, including former Gov. Abdullahi Ganduje and the Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, for their support.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Yusuf was received into the party alongside former National Chairman, Ganduje, deputy senate president, Sen. Kawu Sumaila, and several members of the House of Representatives.

The governor previously joined the APC in 2014, winning the party’s primary election for Kano Central Senatorial seat.

Yusuf cited governance realities, national cohesion, and development as reasons for returning to the APC, a platform he described as familiar and structured for progressive governance.

He stated that rejoining the APC would strengthen cooperation with the Federal Government, accelerate development, enhance security, and improve service delivery in Kano State.

Yusuf said, “I am entering the APC together with 22 state lawmakers, eight federal legislators, 44 local-government chairmen and 484 councillors.

“We will work collectively to advance the party’s noble ideals for the overall political development of Kano State.

“Our mission is to advance the Kano agenda, which remains our primary concern, not personal interest.” (NAN)