Security presence around the Kano State Government House was visibly reinforced on Monday, signalling heightened alertness by security agencies amid swirling political undercurrents in the state.
BusinessDay observed that multiple armoured personnel carriers and other tactical security hardware had been deployed at strategic locations within and around the Government House, ahead of the anticipated defection of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Read also: Shekarau defends Governor Yusuf, says defection not a betrayal of Kwankwaso, NNPP
As of the time of filing, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) had scaled up checkpoints mounted at the seven key entry and exit points of the Government House.
Access to the premises is also being tightly controlled, as staff and visitors, including journalists, are required to undergo thorough identification and screening.
The unusual show of force comes against the backdrop of growing political speculation following reports of Governor Yusuf’s alleged moves towards the APC.
Governor Yusuf, who was elected on the platform of the NNPP, has in recent weeks been linked to high-level consultations that have fuelled talks of a possible realignment ahead of unfolding national political calculations.
While no official confirmation has been made regarding a defection, the reinforced security around the seat of power has been widely interpreted as a precautionary measure in anticipation of a major political development.
Political watchers are of the view that defections by sitting governors often heighten tensions, necessitating pre-emptive security measures to forestall unrest or disruption.
Despite the heavy deployment, the atmosphere around the Government House remained calm and relaxed, with security operatives maintaining a firm but orderly presence.
As of the time of filing this report, government activities continued without interruption, even as political watchers await clarity on the governor’s next move.
