Nigeria’s political scene is undergoing renewed shifts as at least two serving governors elected on opposition platforms are poised to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State and Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State are expected to be formally received into the APC this week at separate ceremonies.
In Kano, Governor Yusuf’s anticipated return to the APC comes after his resignation from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), a development that has sparked widespread defections across the state. Several top political actors—including members of the Kano State House of Assembly, eight federal lawmakers, and all 44 local government chairmen—have reportedly dumped the NNPP following Yusuf’s exit, significantly weakening the party’s structure.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his media aide, Bature Tofa, the governor said his decision was guided by his political history and a conviction that the APC provides a more stable and reliable platform for effective governance.
The statement recalled that Yusuf was previously a member of the APC, having joined the party in 2014, and once contested for the Kano Central Senatorial seat before stepping down for former governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
The governor is also believed to be seeking stronger cooperation with the federal government, especially in the areas of security, infrastructure, and service delivery, which he views as essential to Kano State’s development.
Meanwhile, in Plateau State, preparations are underway for a major political event in Jos, where Governor Caleb Mutfwang is expected to be officially welcomed into the APC on Tuesday.
The reception is expected to draw prominent party leaders, including APC National Chairman Professor Nentawe Yilwatda and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, as well as several governors, ministers, and key stakeholders.
Describing the occasion as historic, the Chairman of the Media and Publicity Sub-Committee, Sir Joseph Ari, said Plateau State would take center stage in national politics during the event, adding that all arrangements had been finalized for a grand reception for the governor.
