Tinubu meets Kwankwaso’s ally Jibrin at Aso Villa

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday met with influential House of Representatives member Abdulmumin Jibrin at Aso Villa.

The meeting came against the backdrop of speculations about likely defection of some prominent Kano politicians from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Jibrin, representing Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency and a long-time associate of both President Tinubu and NNPP leader, Rabiu Kwankwaso, told reporters after the meeting that discussions focused on national issues of public interest.

Refusing to confirm whether his defection to the APC was imminent, Jibrin suggested the possibility could not be ruled out.

“I do not think it is time for that conversation. But everything is open, and everything is a possibility. The most important thing is stability of the country, is unity of the country, and I believe that when we get to the bridge, we’ll cross it”, Jibrin said when asked directly if he was returning to the APC.

The meeting fueled speculation of a re-alignment within the political landscape, especially as Kwankwaso criticised the government because in his estimation, the North is not getting enough attention.

Asked whether his presence at the Villa was connected to efforts to douse political tensions between Tinubu and Kwankwaso, Jibrin downplayed the notion. He described the two politicians as seasoned leaders who share a commitment to the nation’s progress.

He said: “The President is a first-class politician. Of course, the national leader of the NNPP is also a thoroughbred politician, and I believe that both of them are committed to the peace, unity and prosperity of Nigeria. So, irrespective of the comments that were made, I do not think that it should be a source of concern that I’m seen in the Villa during this period.

Read Also: Tinubu meets Jibrin, Kwankwaso ally, amid defection rumours

On the question of whether President Tinubu has delivered for the North, in contrast to Kwankwaso’s recent remarks, Jibrin offered a balanced response.

“Well, every leader does his best, and it depends on how you want to rate him. You can decide to see the cup half full, or you look at the cup half as empty. But I also believe that everyone is entitled to his opinion, and it can always just contribute to deepening the discourse—sometimes it might turn out to be a blessing in disguise”, he noted.

While political observers continue to monitor movements between the NNPP and APC, Jibrin’s visit and his cryptic remarks have added new momentum to ongoing speculations about a broader reconciliation or possible merger talks involving key northern political figures and the ruling party ahead of the 2027 elections.