Abba Kabir Yusuf’s defection: A tragic lesson in the collapse of loyalty and trust.

Abba Kabir Yusuf’s defection from the NNPP to the APC and his political separation from Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso is more than a personal political decision; it is a painful symbol of how loyalty, trust, and gratitude are rapidly collapsing in our society.

Kwankwaso did not just support Abba Kabir Yusuf politically—he stood by him for decades, defended him in adversity, invested political capital in him, and eventually helped lift him to the highest office in Kano State. That relationship was built on sacrifice, patience, and shared struggle. To abandon it so quickly after gaining power sends a dangerous message: loyalty is temporary, gratitude is optional, and power is the ultimate god.

This action reinforces a toxic culture where people are used as ladders and discarded once the climb is complete. It tells the youth that principles do not matter, mentorship is meaningless, and long-term commitment is foolish. When leaders behave this way, young people learn not to trust anyone, not to sacrifice for collective causes, and not to stand by those who helped them grow.

Even worse, it deepens political cynicism. Many youths already believe that politics is a dirty game with no room for integrity. This defection confirms their fears. It teaches them that ideology is fake, promises are empty, and today’s ally can become tomorrow’s enemy the moment interests change.

A society that celebrates such betrayal cannot build strong institutions or responsible leaders. When trust dies at the top, it collapses at the bottom. Friendships weaken, mentorship loses value, and collective struggle disappears. Everyone becomes self-serving, and the nation pays the price.

Leadership is not just about winning elections; it is about character, consistency, and conscience. When those are sacrificed for political convenience, the damage goes far beyond party lines—it wounds the moral fabric of the nation and poisons the minds of its future leaders.

History will not judge this moment by political advantage, but by the lesson it taught: whether Nigeria chose loyalty and principle, or surrendered completely to opportunism.

Mallam BILYAMINU Yahaya