APC Woos Prominent NDC Senator After Failure to Secure Ticket

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has stepped up moves to bring Senator Rufai Hanga into its fold ahead of the 2027 general election, as political realignments continue to gather momentum in Kano State.

Fresh indications of the ruling party’s interest emerged on Thursday when APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, held a meeting with the senator representing Kano Central.

Hanga is regarded as one of the closest political associates of former Kano State Governor and leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

Although the APC chairman described the engagement as a courtesy visit, the development has generated widespread political interest due to the growing uncertainty surrounding Hanga’s future within the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

Speaking after the meeting, Yilwatda said discussions centred on issues affecting Kano State, including peace, unity, stability and development. He stressed the importance of cooperation among political leaders in advancing democratic values and promoting the welfare of citizens.

According to him, political actors must continue to engage one another in the interest of national progress, regardless of party differences.

“Nigeria’s progress is best served when we build bridges of understanding, encourage constructive dialogue, and place the welfare of citizens above partisan considerations,” he said.

Despite the chairman’s remarks, the meeting has further strengthened speculations that the APC is actively courting Hanga as part of its preparations for the next election cycle.

The latest development comes shortly after a delegation of APC leaders in Kano visited the senator and appealed to him to join the ruling party. The delegation was led by the state APC Vice Chairman, Salisu Maje Gwangwazo.

During the visit, the party leaders reportedly told Hanga that his political experience and influence would be appreciated within the APC. They also argued that he had not received adequate recognition despite years of loyalty to Kwankwaso and his political structure.

Sources familiar with the situation said APC leaders intensified their approach after Hanga was unable to secure his party’s ticket for another Senate bid in Kano Central.

The senator was also said to have been considered for a major position within the party’s political calculations ahead of future elections. However, those plans reportedly did not materialise, further fuelling talks about possible changes in his political direction.

The situation attracted even more attention after reports emerged that photographs linked to the Kwankwasiyya movement and NDC insignia were removed from Hanga’s office.

However, neither Hanga nor members of his political team have publicly explained the development. The senator has also remained silent on reports linking him with a move to the APC.