In a strategic move to attract discontented chieftains of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, has confirmed hosting a crucial meeting with former Kano State Secretary to the Government, Dr. Abdullahi Baffa Bichi, and other key NNPP figures at his residence in Abuja.

Essential news reports that the meeting took place amid widespread speculation about the possible defection of prominent NNPP chieftains to the APC.

In addition to Bichi, other high-profile NNPP figures invited included former Commissioner for Project Monitoring and Evaluation, Muhammad Diggol, along with other key stakeholders.

Investigations by Essential news revealed that discussions centered on issues impacting the unity, growth, and development of Kano State, as well as broader national concerns. Details of the meeting, which was held at Barau’s Abuja residence, were later shared in the evening by his spokesperson, Ismail Mudasir, via his official Facebook page.

Barau stated, “Today, I had a productive meeting with the former Secretary to the Kano State Government, Dr. Abdullahi Baffa Bichi, former Commissioner for Project Monitoring and Evaluation, Muhammad Diggol, and other key stakeholders from our dear state at my residence in Abuja.

“Our discussions focused on the development of both our state and the nation. The progress of Kano and Nigeria remains a top priority, and we will continue to collaborate with stakeholders to drive meaningful advancement. Together, we can work towards improving the lives of our people.”

Our correspondent further reports that the meeting took place against the backdrop of rising political tensions within the New Nigeria Peoples Party in Kano.

Dr. Baffa Bichi and Muhammad Diggol were influential members of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration before their abrupt removal.

Bichi, a close associate of NNPP leader Rabiu Kwankwaso, was dismissed as Secretary to the State Government in December 2023, while Diggol was also relieved of his duties. Their ousting, which stirred controversy within the party, was largely viewed as part of an internal power struggle between Kwankwaso’s loyalists and the state government.

Adding to the political intrigue, Bichi’s alleged involvement in the "Abba Tsaya Da Kafarka" (Abba, Hold Your Ground) movement has intensified speculations in Kano. The movement, reportedly spearheaded by Bichi, was seen as an effort to challenge Governor Abba Yusuf’s leadership and assert greater control over state affairs. The growing rift between Bichi and key NNPP figures further deepened tensions, fueling claims that he was undermining the governor’s administration.

Barau’s discussions with the two former officials have intensified speculations about potential political shifts in Kano ahead of the 2027 elections.

The meeting hints at a possible realignment of alliances, as opposition groups continue to strategize for the next political cycle in the state.