Fresh cracks have emerged within the Kwankwasiyya movement as Senator Rufai Sani Hanga, who represents Kano Central Senatorial District, has hinted at the possibility of joining the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Hanga, a longtime ally of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, had previously opposed Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s decision to leave the opposition and align with the APC, insisting he would remain loyal to Kwankwaso.
Following Governor Yusuf’s defection, Hanga also left the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), later moving through other political platforms before remaining with Kwankwaso’s camp. However, recent developments within the movement appear to have strained their relationship.
Reports indicate that tensions escalated after the party’s primary elections, where Hanga was reportedly overlooked for key elective positions despite earlier expectations that he would emerge as the deputy governorship candidate.
The situation reportedly worsened after Mustapha Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso was selected as the governorship running mate, while former Kano deputy governor Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna was chosen as the party’s candidate for the Kano Central Senatorial seat currently occupied by Hanga.
Reacting to the developments, Hanga suggested he now better understands Governor Yusuf’s decision to join the APC. He maintained that if he eventually decides to leave Kwankwaso’s camp, it should not be viewed as an act of betrayal, arguing that he had remained loyal long after others had departed
Meanwhile, the Kano APC has intensified efforts to persuade the senator to join the ruling party. During a visit to Hanga’s residence, party leaders urged him to return, claiming he had been sidelined despite his years of loyalty and commitment.
The APC leaders assured the senator that he would be appreciated within the party, although they acknowledged that available elective positions had already been filled ahead of the next elections.
