Kano APC Leaders Reject Kwankwaso’s Rumored Return, Call Him “Politically Dead

Top members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State, including the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Bala Ata, have publicly opposed the alleged plans by Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso to rejoin the party from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).

Speaking to reporters in Abuja following a strategic meeting with APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, Ata dismissed Kwankwaso’s political relevance in the state, declaring that the former governor no longer commands influence in Kano.

“Kwankwaso’s era is over,” Ata said. “The red cap symbol of his movement is fading fast. You hardly see anyone wearing it these days—even in large gatherings like Friday prayers, you might not spot more than 20 red caps. That speaks volumes.”

He clarified that the APC in Kano never extended an invitation to Kwankwaso and suggested that the senator is merely trying to stage a comeback for his own political survival.

“He’s not coming back because we want him. He’s the one desperately looking for a way back. Frankly, his presence would only sow discord. The APC in Kano is strong and united without him,” Ata insisted.

Ata also expressed confidence in the state’s support for President Bola Tinubu, claiming that the party remains solidly behind the president and will deliver again in upcoming elections.

“Kwankwaso’s grassroots support has collapsed. The people have moved on, and the president understands this new political landscape in Kano,” he added.

Asked about the possibility of accepting Kwankwaso back into the party, Ata was blunt: “I wouldn’t welcome it. I’ve known him since 1999 when I was in the State Assembly while he was governor. But if Ganduje, our leader, decides to accommodate him, I will respect that decision.”

Dr. Ganduje, who was more cautious in tone, acknowledged Kwankwaso’s dwindling influence but hinted that reconciliation might be possible.

“Kwankwaso is like a fish out of water—once the water dries up, the fish starts searching for another stream. His people have left him, and now he’s looking for refuge. As an elder, I won’t slam the door shut, but let’s be clear: he’s returning out of desperation, not strength,” Ganduje said.

The comments highlight growing tension over Kwankwaso’s political future as Kano remains a key battleground in northern Nigerian politics.