Hanga, Gaya visit Tinubu as APC defection rumours intensify

Senator Rufai Hanga, representing Kano Central Senatorial District, and former Senator Kabiru Gaya have met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, amid growing speculation over possible political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The meeting has heightened rumours that Hanga, a member of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), could defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), following weeks of reports linking him with the governing party.

Hanga had earlier met with Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, while APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda was also reported to have visited the senator at his residence as part of efforts to persuade him to join the ruling party.

However, there has been no official announcement from Hanga confirming his defection to the APC, and the purpose and details of his latest meeting with President Tinubu have not been publicly disclosed.

The development comes against the backdrop of increasing political realignments ahead of 2027, with several opposition politicians and elected officials recently moving towards the APC.

Hanga’s possible movement would be politically significant in Kano, where the senator has maintained close ties with former Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and the political structure associated with the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).

For now, the reported meeting with President Tinubu has further intensified speculation, although any formal defection would require an official declaration by the senator