The All Progressives Congress Youth and Students Council (APC YSC) in Kano State, Nigeria, has publicly rejected the potential return of Senator Rabi’u Kwankwaso to the APC. The group, operating under the acronym KASASCO, argues that Kwankwaso’s political influence has waned significantly and his rejoining would offer no tangible benefits to the party, potentially disrupting the prevailing unity and hindering progress. They assert that the APC, under the leadership of Abdullahi Abbas, is in a position of strength, boasting a robust representation in the Senate, House of Representatives, and State House of Assembly. This stance underscores a belief that the APC is self-sufficient and doesn’t require the addition of a figure they perceive as politically diminished.
KASASCO highlights the ongoing exodus of key members from Kwankwaso’s New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the APC, further solidifying their argument against his return. They cite the defection of Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila, representing Kano South, as a significant blow to the NNPP, implying that the party’s electoral prospects are bleak without such influential figures. This exodus is framed as evidence of Kwankwaso’s declining political capital and a desperate attempt to find refuge within the APC. KASASCO, however, firmly rejects this notion, portraying the APC not as a shelter for fading politicians but as a unified front focused on future electoral victories.
The group’s confidence in the APC’s current trajectory is palpable. They express optimism about delivering over two million votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all other APC candidates in the 2027 elections. This projection reflects a belief in the party’s grassroots strength and organizational effectiveness. They credit this positive outlook to the leadership of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the National Chairman of the APC, and Senator Barau Jibrin, the Deputy President of the Senate, praising their strategic acumen and efforts in solidifying the party’s position in Kano. They also commend the party’s successful resolution of internal conflicts, suggesting a renewed sense of purpose and cohesion within the APC.
KASASCO’s strong opposition to Kwankwaso’s return can be interpreted as a strategic move to consolidate power within the APC and prevent potential internal rifts. By publicly denouncing Kwankwaso’s potential re-entry, they are reinforcing the message that the party is strong and united without him. This also serves as a warning to other potential defectors from the NNPP, discouraging them from seeking refuge within the APC and potentially disrupting the current power structure. The group’s emphasis on the party’s internal unity suggests a conscious effort to maintain stability and avoid the factionalism that could arise from integrating a figure as prominent and potentially divisive as Kwankwaso.
The group’s public declaration also serves as a show of force, demonstrating the confidence and influence of the youth and student wing within the APC. By taking such a decisive stance against a prominent political figure, KASASCO asserts its role as a significant voice within the party. Their explicit endorsement of the current leadership, specifically mentioning several key figures, further solidifies their alignment with the established power structure within the APC. This public display of support reinforces the perception of a united front and strengthens the position of the current leadership.
In essence, KASASCO’s rejection of Kwankwaso’s potential return to the APC is a multifaceted political maneuver. It serves to reinforce the narrative of the APC’s current strength and stability, discourage further defections from the NNPP, consolidate the power of the existing leadership, and establish KASASCO as a significant force within the party’s dynamics. This public declaration marks a clear attempt to shape the political landscape in Kano State and solidify the APC’s dominance heading towards the 2027 elections. By preemptively addressing the possibility of Kwankwaso’s return, KASASCO aims to control the narrative and maintain the party’s momentum under its current leadership.
