The All Progressives Congress (APC) has intensified efforts to lure Senator Rufai Hanga away from Rabiu Kwankwaso‘s political camp ahead of the 2027 general election.
Fresh speculation emerged on Thursday after APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, held a meeting with Hanga, a prominent Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) chieftain and senator representing Kano Central.
Although the meeting was described as a courtesy visit, it has fuelled fresh questions about Hanga’s political future.
APC chairman meets Hanga
Speaking after the meeting, Yilwatda said the discussion centred on the unity, peace, stability and future of Kano State.
He, however, avoided comments on reports linking the meeting to an alleged defection plan.
“Nigeria’s progress is best served when we build bridges of understanding, encourage constructive dialogue, and place the welfare of citizens above partisan considerations.”
The APC chairman also expressed confidence that continued engagement among political leaders would promote peace and development in Kano State.
Pressure mounts on Kwankwaso ally
Thursday’s meeting came barely two days after a delegation of Kano APC leaders visited Hanga and urged him to join the ruling party.
The delegation was led by the party’s state vice-chairman, Salisu Maje Gwangwazo.
According to the APC leaders, Hanga has remained loyal to Kwankwaso despite receiving little political reward for his commitment.
They reportedly approached the senator after he failed to secure the NDC ticket to seek another term in the Kano Central Senatorial District.
Hanga was also linked with the party’s deputy governorship ticket before another aspirant eventually secured the position.
The APC delegation encouraged him to follow Governor Abba Yusuf into the ruling party.
They assured him that the APC would recognise his experience and give him the respect he deserves.
Defection rumours gather momentum
Speculation over Hanga’s future intensified after photographs associated with the Kwankwasiyya Movement and the NDC reportedly disappeared from his office.
Neither the senator nor his aides offered any public explanation for the development.
Hanga has also not announced any decision to leave the NDC.
Despite the growing rumours, Yilwatda did not address the defection claims during Thursday’s engagement.
Instead, he urged political leaders to work together in strengthening democracy and advancing the interests of Nigerians.
According to him, cooperation across political divides remains essential for national development.
The latest meeting has nevertheless intensified political calculations surrounding Hanga, who remains one of Kwankwaso’s closest allies in Kano politics.
Read also: Kano APC Hit by Defections as Members Switch Loyalty to NDC
