Yilwatda: Politics Shouldn’t Divide Kano Leaders
Yilwatda: Politics Shouldn’t Divide Kano Leaders
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has said his visit to Senator Rufai Hanga of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), a close ally of former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, was aimed at promoting peace, unity, and development in Kano State.
Yilwatda made the remarks in a statement following a courtesy visit to the senator, who represents Kano Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly. According to the APC chairman, their discussions centred on issues affecting Kano State and the need for political leaders to work together despite belonging to different political parties.
“Our discussions were cordial and focused on the unity, peace, stability, and future of Kano State,” Yilwatda said. He stressed that political differences should not prevent leaders from collaborating in the interest of the people, adding that Nigeria stands to benefit more when politicians prioritise cooperation over partisan rivalry.
“Nigeria’s progress is best served when we build bridges of understanding, encourage constructive dialogue, and place the welfare of citizens above partisan considerations,” Yilwatda stated.
The visit comes amid reports of a strained relationship between Senator Hanga and Kwankwaso following a series of comments made by the lawmaker. Hanga, a long-time ally of Kwankwaso, was elected to the Senate in 2023 on the platform of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) under the Kwankwasiyya movement.
Hanga has reportedly remained dissatisfied after losing the party’s governorship ticket to Dr. Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna. He also alleged that Kwankwaso considered handing the Kano State governorship ticket to his son, Mustapha Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
Mustapha Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has since emerged as the deputy governorship candidate of the NDC for Kano State ahead of the 2027 general elections. The NDC has also named him as running mate to its governorship candidate, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo.
The APC has intensified efforts to persuade Hanga to defect to the ruling party ahead of the 2027 elections, as political realignments continue to gather momentum in Kano State. Hanga has expressed disappointment over his experience in the Kwankwasiyya political movement, saying his years of unwavering loyalty ultimately left him heartbroken.
Yilwatda, a professor and engineer from Plateau State, was re-elected as APC National Chairman at the party’s 8th National Convention in Abuja in March 2026 through a consensus and affirmative voice vote. His election followed the exit of his predecessor, paving the way for his substantive leadership of the ruling party.