Senator Rufai Sani Hanga, who represents Kano Central Senatorial District, has resigned his membership of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), ending months of speculation over his political future.
Hanga, who is also the Deputy Minority Whip of the Senate, communicated his resignation in a letter dated August 3, 2026, addressed to the NDC chairman in Nassarawa Local Government Area of Kano State.
The senator said his decision was based on personal reasons, explaining that his political activities had affected some of his personal engagements.
He did not disclose his next political destination or announce plans to join another political party.
Hanga leaves NDC
Hanga’s resignation comes against the backdrop of reported tensions within the NDC’s political structure in Kano and speculation over his relationship with the party leadership.
He was reportedly edged out during the party’s last primary election after the Kano Central senatorial ticket was awarded to Yusuf Gawuna.
Despite the speculation surrounding his political future, Hanga did not cite internal disagreement or any particular political grievance in his resignation letter.
His departure has nevertheless generated renewed speculation that he could eventually move to the All Progressives Congress.
Reports have linked Hanga to recent meetings with prominent APC figures, including National Chairman Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
However, the senator has not publicly confirmed that he is joining the ruling party.
Implications for Kano politics
Hanga’s exit could have political implications in Kano ahead of the 2027 general elections, particularly because of his position as a serving senator and his previous association with the Kwankwasiyya political movement.
The senator has also previously commented on the political prospects of the ruling party in Kano, including after a reported meeting with President Bola Tinubu.
With political realignments already taking place ahead of 2027, Hanga’s next move is expected to attract considerable attention.
For now, however, his official position is simply that he has resigned from the NDC to concentrate on personal activities.
Whether the resignation will eventually lead to another political alignment remains unclear.