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Kano, News, Politics

Kano Governor Abba Yusuf to Officially Rejoin APC January 26

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State is set to formally rejoin the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Monday, January 26, 2026, following his resignation from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). This was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday in Kano by his spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa. According to the statement, the governor’s return to the APC is aimed at strengthening cooperation with the Federal Government, accelerating development initiatives, improving security, and enhancing service delivery across Kano State. Read Also: Pharmacist Sule Lauds Governor Yusuf Amid DMCSA Achievements Governor Yusuf Leaves NNPP, Says Decision Guided by Kano’s Interest How Ganduje Laid the Groundwork for APC’s Digital Membership Revolution Governor Yusuf had previously been a member of the APC, having joined the party in 2014, when he won its primary election for the Kano Central Senatorial seat. The statement further revealed that the governor will formally register as an APC member alongside 22 members of the Kano State House of Assembly, eight federal lawmakers, and 44 local government council chairmen. As part of the programme, Governor Yusuf is also expected to officially launch the APC electronic membership registration exercise in the state. The development follows days of intense political speculation after the governor announced his exit from the NNPP on Friday, marking a significant realignment in Kano State’s political landscape.

Kano, News, Politics

Governor Yusuf Prioritizes Kano, Dismisses 2027 Politics

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has said that it was Allah, not politicians or individuals, who made him governor, stressing that his loyalty remains firmly with Kano State above any person or political interest. The governor stated this on Saturday while presenting motorcycles to his social media handlers, amid controversies surrounding his reported defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC). “In 2023, it was God who gave me power, not anybody else, and I still thank and appreciate Him as the ultimate decider of what happens next,” Yusuf said. He described discussions about the 2027 general elections as premature and a distraction from pressing governance challenges confronting the state, noting that the future remains solely in God’s hands. “No one has certainty of tomorrow, let alone 2027. We should allow the future to unfold. If we retain our positions, that is fine; if not, it is the will of Allah,” the governor stated. Yusuf said his immediate focus was ensuring peace, security, and stability across Kano State, adding that governance, rather than political calculations, remained his priority. Read Also: Why Gobirawa’s Centuries-Old Agrarian Life is at Risk in Kano Governor Yusuf Leaves NNPP, Says Decision Guided by Kano’s Interest Ganduje Marks Daughter’s Academic Milestone at King’s College London “We have to get it right by ensuring full peace and security before talking about anything else. That is my major concern now,” he said. The governor further stressed that Kano State must always come first, insisting that no individual was bigger than the state. “To me, Kano comes first, not loyalty to anybody. Everyone should know that no one is bigger than Kano; we must all remain loyal to Kano,” Yusuf declared. The development followed weeks of intense political speculation over the governor’s future, which eventually culminated on Friday when Governor Yusuf, through his spokesman, officially announced his decision to leave the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). The statement, released after prolonged defection rumours, confirmed the governor’s exit from the party, bringing to an end weeks of uncertainty surrounding his next political move. Also speaking at the event, a former Deputy Governor of Kano State, Prof. Hafiz Abubakar, spoke on the origin of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, saying it was not created by Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. “Myself and five others created the Kwankwasiyya Movement and even gave it the red cap symbol, not Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso,” Abubakar said. He explained that the movement was formed at a time when its founders were politically marginalised, noting that they collectively built its identity and structure. “Dr. Yunusa Adamu Dangwani, Engr. Rabiu Suleiman Bichi, myself, and others constructed the acronym of Kwankwasiyya when the going was tough and we were somewhat sidelined,” he said. Abubakar added that the group rallied round Kwankwaso during difficult political periods in Kano State. “At that time, we gave every support to Kwankwaso to survive the political tsunamis directed at him by political heavyweights in Kano, and that was how the movement was created,” he said. The former deputy governor criticised Kwankwaso for what he described as a failure to acknowledge the contributions of those who stood by him. “That behaviour drove all those loyal to him away, leaving him alone,” Abubakar said. He compared the situation with the leadership style of the late Mallam Aminu Kano. “We thought Kwankwaso would act like the late Mallam Aminu Kano, who always acknowledged that others created NEPU, PRP and the Sawaba Movement, giving them credit at every opportunity. Alas, that was not the case,” he added.

Feature, National, Politics

How Ganduje Laid the Groundwork for APC’s Digital Membership Revolution

Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano The transformation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) membership system into a modern, digital platform began as a bold initiative during the tenure of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as National Chairman. Recognizing the challenges posed by outdated manual records, Ganduje sought to modernize the party’s membership registration, reduce disputes, and ensure grassroots voices were properly represented. His vision was to have a reliable, data-driven system that could strengthen internal democracy and provide ordinary party members with a credible platform for engagement. While the initial framework was laid under Ganduje’s leadership, the system gained full traction and nationwide implementation after he left office. Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, the current APC National Chairman, took the foundational blueprint Ganduje established and expanded it, ensuring operational efficiency and making the E‑Membership platform accessible to party members across Nigeria. Under Nentawe’s administration, the platform has become fully functional, facilitating online registration, verification, and participation in primaries, and strengthening the party’s internal democratic processes. Related: Ganduje Marks Daughter’s Academic Milestone at King’s College London Dr. Ganduje’s Political School and the Rise of Dr. Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure at 48 Ganduje Rallies Kano APC Members for Strategic E-Registration Push Party insiders emphasize that the initiative’s success reflects a perfect blend of Ganduje’s foresight and Nentawe’s execution. Analysts note that while Ganduje planted the seed, Nentawe’s strategic oversight ensured the system flourished, bridging the gap between leadership and grassroots members and setting a new standard for transparency and accountability in party administration. Despite challenges such as internet limitations in rural areas and occasional technical hitches, APC officials remain confident that the program represents a long-term solution to membership disputes, enhances party inclusiveness, and positions the APC as a forward-looking political organization. For many observers, the E‑Membership system is a lasting testament to Ganduje’s vision and Nentawe’s follow-through, ensuring that grassroots voices are recognized, verified, and empowered in Nigeria’s political landscape.

Kano, News, Politics

Kwankwaso Vows to Remain Firm as NNPP Loses Governor, Chairmen to APC

The National Leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has reacted to the reported defection of Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and several political office holders, declaring that his political struggle is not driven by personal gain but by the pursuit of justice and better living conditions for ordinary Nigerians. Political tension heightened in Kano State following the resignation of Governor Yusuf alongside 44 local government council chairmen, members of the House of Representatives, and other political appointees, who are reportedly on their way to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Speaking to party supporters at his residence in Kano shortly after the governor’s resignation, Kwankwaso said his decades-long political engagement has been centred on emancipating the masses from socio-economic challenges. “I am not for sale. Our political convictions keep me grounded. If I were in politics for personal gain, I would have taken the easy route, and you would be looking for me elsewhere, not here,” he said. Read Also: Ganduje Marks Daughter’s Academic Milestone at King’s College London Governor Yusuf Leaves NNPP, Says Decision Guided by Kano’s Interest Why Gobirawa’s Centuries-Old Agrarian Life is at Risk in Kano He added that commitment to shared ideals, rather than material incentives, has sustained the Kwankwasiyya Movement over the years. “Our shared vision is what keeps me going. If I were motivated by greed, I would have taken the money and walked away. And you would not be here today, standing firmly with us,” Kwankwaso stated. The former Kano State governor urged supporters of the NNPP and the Kwankwasiyya Movement to remain resolute and intensify mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections. “We need people like you who have sacrificed and stood by the truth. You should not relent, because one day we will achieve our objectives,” he said. Kwankwaso also warned that recent political developments in Kano should serve as a wake-up call for the movement. “Going by what is happening in Kano today, we must begin to prepare seriously. There are people who are determined to destroy what we have built over time,” he cautioned. Reaffirming his stance, Kwankwaso assured supporters that he would not compromise his principles, stressing that his mission remains the defence of the common people. “My mission has always been to fight for the ordinary people. I will not compromise with those who exploit the masses,” he reiterated.

Kano, News, Politics

Governor Yusuf Leaves NNPP, Says Decision Guided by Kano’s Interest

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has formally resigned his membership of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), citing deepening internal crises and the need to protect the broader interests of the people of Kano State. This was conveyed in a statement signed by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Friday. According to the statement, the governor communicated his decision in a letter addressed to the Chairman of Diso-Chiranchi Ward of the NNPP in Gwale Local Government Area, informing the party of his withdrawal from its membership with effect from Friday, January 23, 2026. “I write with a deep sense of gratitude to formally notify the leadership of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) of my decision to resign my membership of the party,” the governor stated in the letter. Governor Yusuf expressed appreciation to the NNPP for providing him with a political platform and support during his engagement with the party. Read Also: Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf and Hon. Murtala Sule Garo: A Well‑Matched Pair of Walking Shoes Hon. Murtala Garo: Gov. Abba’s Political Masterstroke Dr. Ganduje’s Political School and the Rise of Dr. Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure at 48 “I remain sincerely appreciative of the opportunity given to me by the party, its leadership, and members across Kano State to be part of its political journey since 2022, as well as the support, goodwill, and cooperation extended to me during my time in the party,” he said. The governor attributed his decision to persistent internal disputes and ongoing legal battles that have continued to destabilise the party at both state and national levels. “In recent times, the party has been confronted with persistent internal challenges arising from leadership disagreements and ongoing legal processes, many of which are presently before the courts for judicial determination,” he noted. He added that the unresolved crises had widened divisions within the party and weakened its cohesion. “The growing disenfranchisement among party members has created deep divisions within the party structure, resulting in cracks that appear increasingly irreconcilable and have generated uncertainty at both state and national levels,” the statement read. Governor Yusuf said his resignation followed careful reflection and was guided solely by considerations of public interest. “After careful reflection, and without prejudice to the party’s capacity to resolve its internal challenges, I have come to the conclusion that my resignation is in the best interest of the people of Kano State,” he said. He stressed that the decision was taken in good faith and without bitterness, reaffirming his commitment to peace, unity, and the progress of Kano State. The statement further disclosed that the governor’s resignation was accompanied by that of 21 members of the Kano State House of Assembly, eight members of the House of Representatives, and all the 44 local government chairmen in the state. The resignation letter was acknowledged by the Secretary of Diso-Chiranchi Ward, Hon. Kabiru Zubairu, who commended the governor for what he described as laudable achievements in infrastructure development, urban renewal, healthcare, education, and economic empowerment. “I concur with His Excellency on the lingering crisis in our party. Though efforts are ongoing to manage the situation, we have no option but to accept the resignation of one of the most performing governors produced by the NNPP,” Zubairu said.

Feature, Kano, Politics

Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf and Hon. Murtala Sule Garo: A Well‑Matched Pair of Walking Shoes

By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano Very soon, Kano’s political landscape will realign, when the State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf finally join the All Progressive Congress (APC). When this finally happened, the governor will need a “perfect pair” to keep his stride steady, particularly when the current Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam decided not to defect along with him. Governor Abba Kabir, now in his 63rd year and over two years into office, has already set a pace of urgency, restoration, and a “New Kano” vision. For the State to sustain that momentum, pairing him with a deputy who can match his stride like Hon. Murtala Sule Garo will certainly justify the political realignment. In leadership, a governor and his deputy are like a well‑crafted pair of walking shoes: one provides direction, the other offers support, and together they traverse any terrain. The left shoe (the governor) charts the course, while the right shoe (the deputy) absorbs shock, maintains balance, and keeps the journey comfortable. Their synergy translates into stability, inclusive governance, and relentless progress for Kano. Read Also: Abba Yusuf’s Calculated Defection Leaves Old Loyalists Politically Exposed The Ganduje Equation: How Kano’s Power Map Leaves Governor Yusuf with Few Options Beyond the Godfather’s Shadow: Why Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf Chose Kano Over a Provincial Presidential Quest For so many reasons, Hon. Murtala Sule Garo fits the right shoe. He is from the Kano North Senatorial Zone where the deputy governor position was zoned. He has grassroots credibility. As a former Commissioner for Local Government, he has built a reputation for accessibility and for managing people and resources at the community level. Hon. Murtala, is a bridge‑builder. He can link the NNPP’s existing structures with the APC’s broader network, easing the anticipated party switch and creating a cohesive environment for policy execution. As a grassroots mobilizer, particularly in a state known for political vibrancy, Murtala Sule Garo will play a stabilizer role. His ability to rally wards, councils, and youth groups and turn political apathy into active participation, boosting voter turnout and civic engagement, is assured. What can this pair deliver? Stability from the ground up a solid foundation of local support prevents “small tremors from becoming structural crises,” as analyst Dr. Elena Vance notes, hence with Hon. Murtala Sule Garo providing a buffer to the Governor, political stability will ensue. The pair is capable of further accelerating development in the state with the ongoing projects in water supply, agricultural subsidies, and digital transformation, the governor’s ambitious blueprint gains a reliable executor. Moreover, Murtala’s inclusive approach to governance will further open doors to traditional rulers, youth groups, and private investors fostering collective ownership of Kano’s progress. Hon. Murtala Sule Garo will lock in that trajectory, ensuring the administration’s plans endure and citizens feel the comfort of steady, balanced leadership. Governor Yusuf’s achievements in urban renewal, educational reform, healthcare expansion, and infrastructure upgrades have already earned him a reputation as one of the state’s most effective leaders. Pairing him with Murtala Sule Garo will be the best way forward for the State. Just as a good pair of walking shoes carries a traveler forward with confidence, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and Deputy Murtala Sule Garo can lead Kano on a successful, step‑by‑step journey comfortable, supportive, and balanced for every stakeholder. Umar Idris Shuaibu, a digital journalist and political analyst write from Kano 

Feature, Kano, Politics

Hon. Murtala Garo: Gov. Abba’s Political Masterstroke

Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano As Governor Abba Kabir navigates his anticipated defection to the APC, and the eminent adamancy of his deputy to remain in NNPP, the substitution of the deputy governor is imminent. However, this is not merely an administrative vacancy to be filled. It is a pivotal strategic decision that will determine whether his political consolidation succeeds or collapses under the weight of competing interests and factional tensions. The question facing the governor is this: who possesses the character, competence, loyalty, and strategic value to serve as his anchor during one of the most turbulent periods of his political career? Moreover, in the event, Deputy Governor Aminu Abdussalam’s impeachment became eminent, the development will obviously intensify hostility within the Kwankwasiyya faction against Governor Abba. In this hostile environment, Abba cannot afford to select a deputy based on regional appeasement or factional compromise. The times demand strength, not capitulation; a leader who brings proven integrity, administrative excellence, and unwavering loyalty. Murtala Sule Garo embodies all of these. His proven loyalty to his political associates, combined with his well-documented generosity and philanthropic commitments, demonstrates a leader of principle and integrity. Garo’s strong family background and standing in society reflect the moral foundation necessary for high public office. In politics, loyalty cannot be manufactured; it must be demonstrated over time. Garo’s track record speaks for itself. A deputy governor who embodies such qualities provides the governor with a trustworthy confidant during periods of political turbulence, which precisely what Governor Abba currently requires as he navigates the choppy waters of defection and factional realignment. Some will argue that Kano South senatorial district deserves the deputy governorship. Read Also: Group Backs Adamu Abdu Fanda for Kano Deputy Governorship, Cites Experience, Competence Dr. Ganduje’s Political School and the Rise of Dr. Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure at 48 Kano Power Struggle Heats Up as Yusuf Reappears Without Kwankwaso Allies Their agitation is understandable, and their concerns are legitimate. But political leadership requires more than regional representation; it demands the balancing of competing interests based on merit and strategic necessity. What Murtala Sule Garo brings to the administration far outweighs the representational argument. His proven track record in infrastructure development, educational reform, and grassroots mobilization offers tangible governance benefits that cannot be replicated. Governor Abba can address south senatorial concerns through strategic appointments, board positions, and development projects, as an alternative mechanisms that satisfy regional aspirations without compromising the selection of the most competent deputy. To sacrifice administrative excellence on the altar of regional representation would be to diminish the governor’s capacity to govern effectively and deliver results. Consider, moreover, Kano North’s political configuration. Both Murtala Sule Garo and Hon. Abba Bichi command significant political influence within the APC from this zone. Relationship between Garo and Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin politically might look strange, but this reality does not diminish Garo’s stature or viability. Rather, it demonstrates that Kano North’s political strength transcends any individual relationship or factional tension. By selecting Garo, Governor Abba consolidates the zone’s power and ensures robust representation at the highest levels of state governance. The zone’s influence remains undiminished regardless of inter-personal tensions. The deputy governorship is not merely a ceremonial position; it is foundational to the governor’s re-election strategy for 2027. This is where Garo’s true strategic value becomes apparent. With his demonstrated capacity to mobilize hundreds of youth organizations across Kano’s 44 local government areas and his proven administrative competence, he is precisely the ally Governor Abba needs for a successful second-term bid. As Commissioner for Local Governments, Garo spearheaded educational facility renovations across all 44 councils and executed critical infrastructure projects. His prior roles as Special Adviser to the Governor, Kabo Local Government Chairman, and ALGON Chairman demonstrate mastery of both local and state-level governance. This depth of experience is indispensable during political transition. Garo’s network, institutional knowledge, and track record make him an invaluable asset for campaign machinery and governance continuity. Selecting him is not merely an administrative convenience; it is a strategic investment in electoral viability. The choice before Governor Abba is clear. He can select a deputy based on regional appeasement and watch his administration struggle under the weight of competing interests, factional hostility, and weak governance. Or he can select Murtala Sule Garo, a leader who consolidates grass-root power, brings proven administrative excellence, embodies loyalty and integrity, and positions him for a triumphant second term. This is visionary leadership.

Abuja, News, Politics

Photos: Dr. Mariya Bunkure Addresses APC North West Youth Leaders in Abuja

The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, has described youths as the backbone of the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing their energy, ideas, and mobilisation strength as critical to the party’s continued success. Dr. Bunkure made the remark while addressing youth leaders from the APC North West Zone during the “Meet and Greet” for Asiwaju/Shettima event held at the Ladi Kwali Hall, African Continental Hotel, Abuja. She noted that the vibrancy and organisational capacity of young party members have consistently sustained the ruling party’s structures and electoral fortunes, stressing that their role remains indispensable to the APC’s future. Read Also: Dr. Ganduje’s Political School and the Rise of Dr. Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure at 48 Wike Reinstates Suspended FCT Officials Mariya Bunkure: Abuja Records 200 Road Projects Completed Under Tinubu The minister commended the Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) and the APC youth leadership for organising the engagement, describing it as a strategic platform for deepening party unity, strengthening participation, and reinforcing collective resolve. Dr. Bunkure also expressed appreciation to the youths for their steadfast loyalty to the APC and their support for the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima. She reaffirmed the pivotal role of the North West Zone in Nigeria’s political evolution and the APC’s electoral triumphs, urging youth leaders to sustain issue-based engagement, peaceful mobilisation, and constructive dialogue in advancing democratic values and national development.

News, Politics

Gantsa Cautions Obasanjo to Steer Clear of ADC Politics

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly rejected a call by former President Olusegun Obasanjo for suggesting leadership roles within the party, describing the move as an intrusion into its internal affairs. The National Assistant Organising Secretary of the ADC and North-West Zonal Organising Secretary, Ali Tukur Gantsa, made this known in a statement on Wednesday. Gantsa said Obasanjo, who is not a card-carrying member of the ADC, had no moral or constitutional basis to interfere in the party’s internal processes, let alone suggest presidential flag bearers. According to him, he is not a member of the party, making any attempt to project his candidature “misplaced and an affront to the independence of the ADC.” Read Also: APC Appoints Bichi as Chairman, Dan Agundi Co-Chairman of E-Registration Committee He further alleged that Obasanjo played a key role in the defeat of former President Goodluck Jonathan in the 2015 general election, attributing it to what he described as “insincere and misleading political suggestions.” “The ADC is a people-centred party with credible and committed members. It should not be dragged into anti-democratic tendencies that could breed chaos, confusion and stagnation,” Gantsa said. He warned that the party was aware of what he termed “interlopers” who were allegedly working to disorganise the ADC for personal and self-centred political interests as ADC will only entertain registered members. Gantsa advised the former president to respect the party’s autonomy and maintain a dignified distance from its affairs. He stressed that when the time is ripe, bona fide members of the party, guided by democratic principles, would chart the political direction of the ADC. “The future of the ADC will be determined by its members, not by external influences,” he added. He advised Peter Obi to remain focused and keep a distance from the former president to achieve desired results. The statement comes amid growing political realignments ahead of future electoral contests in Nigeria.

Kano, News, Politics

APC Appoints Bichi as Chairman, Dan Agundi Co-Chairman of E-Registration Committee

Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State has appointed Rabi’u Sulaiman Bichi as Chairman and Baffa Babba Dan Agundi as Co-Chairman of its E-Registration Membership Committee. The appointments were announced during the inauguration of the 14-member committee by the Kano State APC Chairman, Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas. Other members of the committee include Abdul Adamu Fagge, Musa Ali Kachako, Shafi’u Abdullahi Darma, Ahmad Aruwa, Sanusi Sa’idu Kiru Majidadi, Khalid Ishaq Diso, Auwalu Ubale Minjibir, Fa’iz Alfindiki, Binta Rabi’u Spikin, Umar Muhammad Rabiu and Muhammad Tudun Wada, popularly known as Tweeter. Aminu Umar Dawakin Kudu was appointed as Secretary of the committee. Read Also: The Ganduje Equation: How Kano’s Power Map Leaves Governor Yusuf with Few Options In his remarks, Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas explained the mandate of the committee and urged members to discharge their duties with commitment and diligence to ensure the success of the electronic membership registration exercise. He said the project would be implemented across all wards in the 44 local government areas of Kano State. The APC chairman noted that the e-registration initiative is aimed at strengthening the party’s membership database, enhancing internal organisation and improving coordination ahead of future political engagements.

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