Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) candidate in the 2023 presidential election, has refuted reports that he intends to join the All Progressives Congress (APC), calling the rumours unfounded and politically motivated.

Kwankwaso responded to the circulating claims via his official X account, emphasizing that he has not reached any deal with the APC or any other political party. He described the allegations as fabrications aimed at creating political confusion and urged people to trust only information from his verified platforms.

The controversy centered around a statement allegedly issued by Ibrahim Rabiu, who has since apologized, admitting he was not authorized to speak on Kwankwaso’s behalf and was misled by false information.

Meanwhile, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, forecasted an increase in defections from opposition politicians to the APC in the near future. Speaking at an APC stakeholders’ meeting in Kaduna, Abbas highlighted the party’s strengthened position following the 2023 elections.

He noted that the APC controls 19 governorships and holds the majority in both chambers of the National Assembly. Recent defections from lawmakers in several states, including Kano and Edo, have increased the number of defectors in the House to 25.

Abbas also mentioned recent high-profile defections such as Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his predecessor Ifeanyi Okowa joining the APC. He expressed optimism about further defections, viewing them as signs of growing public confidence in the party and President Tinubu.

The Speaker praised the APC’s victory in the 2024 Edo gubernatorial election and highlighted internal reforms within the party that have improved democratic processes and grassroots engagement. He further emphasized the strategic importance of the North-West geopolitical zone as a key electoral force.

While Kwankwaso stands firm in denying defection rumours, the APC continues to expand its reach and influence across Nigeria’s political terrain.