Political Earthquake In Kano As Commissioners, Top Officials Resign After Abba Yusuf’s Defection

According to Ireporter Online, a fresh wave of resignations has hit the Kano State Government following the defection of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Governor Yusuf formally announced his defection to the APC on Monday, stating that the move was taken in what he described as the best interest of the people of Kano State. His decision followed an earlier resignation from the NNPP last Friday, which he attributed to persistent internal crises and unresolved leadership disputes within the party.

The development came shortly after 21 members of the Kano State House of Assembly also dumped the NNPP for the APC, further intensifying the political realignment in the state.

Among the latest officials to step down is the Commissioner for Internal Security and Special Services, Air Vice Marshal Ibrahim Umaru (retd.). In a resignation letter dated January 26, 2026, and addressed to the governor through the Secretary to the State Government, Umaru expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him during his tenure.

The retired Air Force officer recalled his initial appointment as Director-General of the Special Services Directorate in June 2023 before his elevation to commissioner, noting that recent political developments informed his decision to resign. He described the move as a difficult but carefully considered one, adding that his service was guided by the principles of the Kwankwasiyya Movement led by former Kano State Governor and NNPP leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

Also resigning is the Commissioner for Special Duties, Nasiru Sule Garo, who announced his decision in a letter dated January 26. Garo said it was an honour to serve the people of Kano State and thanked Governor Yusuf for the opportunity, pledging to ensure a smooth transition and provide support during the handover process.

Other senior officials who have resigned include Laminu Rabiu, Director-General of the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board, and Hassan Danbappa, Managing Director of the Kano State Roads Maintenance Agency. Rabiu, in his letter, said his decision followed a reassessment of his political stance, reaffirming his loyalty to Senator Kwankwaso, the NNPP, and the Kwankwasiyya movement.

Additionally, Shafa’atu Ahmed has stepped down from her role as Chief Governor’s Reporter at the Ministry of Rural and Urban Development, expressing appreciation to the governor for the opportunity to serve in his administration.

The resignations underscore the growing political shifts within Kano State following Governor Yusuf’s defection and the ongoing realignment of key political actors.