Kwankwaso Ally, Rep. Sagir Koki, Set to Dump NNPP for APC.
By Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu, Democracy Newsline Newspaper
November 1, 2025
A major political realignment may soon shake the Kano political landscape as Hon. Engr. Sagir Ibrahim Koki, member representing Kano Municipal Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, is reportedly on the verge of defecting from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Multiple sources within both parties confirmed that consultations have reached advanced stages, with Koki expected to make a formal announcement “in the coming days.”
Engr. Koki, a staunch ally of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso — founder of the Kwankwasiyya Movement and presidential candidate of the NNPP in 2023 — was one of the most trusted lieutenants of the former Kano governor. Before joining active politics, Koki was a businessman and civil engineering contractor.
According to insiders, Koki was initially reluctant to join partisan politics but was persuaded by Senator Kwankwaso himself to contest the Kano Municipal Federal Constituency seat under the NNPP platform during the 2023 general elections. He went on to secure victory, defeating Mukhtari Ishaq Yakasai of the APC and Engr. Yusuf Da’awa of the PDP.
In what appears to be an indication of growing cracks within the NNPP in Kano, Nura Hussaini, a close political associate of Koki and Special Adviser to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf on Commerce, has tendered his resignation.
Although the reason for Hussaini’s resignation has not been officially disclosed, sources close to the government suggest it may be part of the wider plan for both men to defect to the APC.
A top NNPP official, who requested anonymity, told Democracy Newsline that “Koki’s defection, if confirmed, would be a significant blow to the Kwankwasiyya family, given his long-standing relationship with the leader and his influence in Kano Municipal.”
Meanwhile, Senator Kwankwaso recently voiced concern over what he described as “indiscipline and betrayal” among some NNPP lawmakers who have allegedly been fraternising with APC members.
“We are watching them, and we will deal with them,” Kwankwaso reportedly said during a recent meeting with NNPP stakeholders in Kano.
Observers believe the comment was a veiled reference to Hon. Koki, who is known to maintain a cordial working relationship with Hon. Abubakar Kabir Bichi, Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations and member representing Bichi Federal Constituency under the APC.
Political watchers in Kano predict that Koki’s move could trigger a wave of defections from the NNPP, as reports suggest that lawmakers from Nassarawa, Kumbotso, Gwale, and other constituencies are considering similar moves.
An APC chieftain who spoke to Democracy Newsline on condition of anonymity said:
“The APC is a big family. We are ready to welcome anyone who believes in the vision of progress and unity. Hon. Koki is a respected lawmaker and his joining us will strengthen the party, not just in Kano Municipal but across the state.”
If confirmed, Koki’s defection would further realign Kano’s political forces ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the APC seeking to reclaim its lost ground from the NNPP.
The reported defection of Hon. Sagir Koki highlights deepening divisions within the NNPP following its dramatic rise to power in Kano in 2023. Despite its electoral success, internal rifts have emerged over control, loyalty, and access to key appointments.
Kano’s political dynamics remain fluid, with allegiances often shifting between the APC and NNPP, the two dominant forces in the state. Analysts say that as the 2027 election cycle approaches, party discipline and personal ambition will continue to shape political decisions among lawmakers at both state and federal levels.
For now, all eyes are on Hon. Koki — once one of Kwankwaso’s most trusted allies — as he prepares to make a move that could redefine the political map of Kano Municipal and beyond.
