By In a major political shake-up at the National Assembly, two members of the House of Representatives from Kano State Hon. Abdulmumin Jibrin Kofa and Hon. Engr. Sagir Ibrahim Koki have officially dumped the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The development marks a significant realignment within Kano’s political landscape, with strong implications for the NNPP’s strength ahead of upcoming elections.
Abdulmumin Jibrin Kofa joins APC after expulsion from NNPP
Hon. Abdulmumin Jibrin Kofa, who represents Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency, confirmed his defection to the APC during Thursday plenary session at the House of Representatives in Abuja.
Kofa’s move comes barely two months after his expulsion from the NNPP over allegations of anti-party activities and non-payment of membership dues.
The former NNPP chieftain, a familiar figure in Kano politics, was warmly received by APC leaders and lawmakers at the National Assembly chamber.
Sagir Koki resigns, cites leadership crisis in NNPP
Similarly, Hon. Engr. Sagir Ibrahim Koki, representing Kano Municipal Federal Constituency, has formally resigned from the NNPP.
In his resignation letter dated November 11, 2025, and addressed to the Chairperson of Zaitawa Ward in Kano Municipal Local Government Area, Koki cited the worsening leadership crisis within the party as his main reason for leaving.
“My decision is guided by my constitutional right to freedom of association,” Koki wrote, emphasizing that the internal divisions within the NNPP had made it impossible to continue under its platform.
APC leadership, Gbajabiamila, and party chairman welcome defectors
Present at the House during the announcement were key figures from the ruling party, including the Chief of Staff to the President and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, as well as the National Chairman of the APC, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda.
Both leaders joined other APC lawmakers in welcoming the defectors, describing the move as “a reaffirmation of confidence in the ruling party’s vision and leadership.”
Insiders say Gbajabiamila’s presence further signified the Presidency’s interest in consolidating APC’s political dominance in Kano a state considered crucial to the party’s national base.
Implications for Kano politics
With Kofa and Koki’s defection, political analysts predict a major shift in Kano’s political power map as the APC strengthens its foothold ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The exit of two influential lawmakers also deepens the ongoing crisis within the NNPP, which has been struggling with internal rifts and leadership tussles since the last election cycle.
