Politics

By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano The Kwankwasiyya Movement has announced the resignation of the Deputy Governor of Kano State, Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, citing the need to preserve peace and ensure smooth governance. This was disclosed in a statement issued by the movement’s spokesperson, Habibu Sale Mohammed. According to the statement, the decision to step down was taken in the interest of maintaining stability and allowing the office to function effectively without disruption. The movement clarified that the resignation should not be interpreted as an admission of the allegations levelled against the Deputy Governor by the Kano State House of Assembly. It stressed that he maintains a clean record in public service. Read Also: Gawuna Missing from Political Radar as APC Battles to Stop Defection Rumours Governor Yusuf Sacks Kano Commissioner in Cabinet Shake-Up Mustapha Bala Dawaki and the Prospect of a 2027 Political Comeback It further noted that the move was aimed at preventing political tensions that could hinder governance and slow down the state’s development. The statement added that the former Deputy Governor will now focus on strengthening the Kwankwasiyya Movement and developing political strategies ahead of the 2027 general elections. The group also called on its supporters and the people of Kano State to remain law-abiding and continue supporting good governance.

A former Deputy Governor of Kano State and 2023 governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, has reportedly become unreachable amid growing speculation over a possible defection from the ruling party. The development comes as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is said to have directed key party stakeholders to engage the former deputy governor in a bid to halt his alleged move toward the Kwankwasiyya political movement, with potential alignment to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Political observers in Kano say the unfolding situation has placed Gawuna at the centre of intense political interest, as both the APC and Kwankwasiyya camps closely monitor his next move. Reports indicate that Gawuna’s alleged plan to align with Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso ahead of the 2027 general elections is gaining traction within political circles, raising concerns within the APC while energising supporters of the Kwankwasiyya movement. Read Also: Gawuna’s Journey From Kano Politics to National Service Adding to the speculation, a group led by Sheikh Ahmed Sabo Usman, Chief Imam of Gawuna’s residential mosque, recently paid a Sallah homage to Kwankwaso at his Miller Road residence in Kano, a move widely interpreted as a signal of possible political realignment. Sources within the APC disclosed that efforts by party leaders to reach Gawuna have so far been unsuccessful, with his phone reportedly placed on “Do Not Disturb” mode. Insiders suggest he travelled to Saudi Arabia during Ramadan for Umrah and has yet to return, with indications that he may currently be on a private visit to a North African country. The situation has reportedly unsettled party structures in Kano, prompting renewed consultations at the national level. According to sources, the presidency has mandated a high-level delegation, including a prominent senator from Zamfara State and a presidential adviser, to persuade Gawuna to remain within the APC fold. Party insiders further revealed that discussions may include offering Gawuna a senatorial ticket for Kano Central in the 2027 elections as part of efforts to retain his loyalty. Analysts warn that Gawuna’s potential defection could significantly alter Kano’s political landscape. Having secured 890,705 votes in the 2023 governorship election, he is widely regarded as a formidable political figure with strong grassroots support. A political analyst, Aminu Bashir, noted that a possible alliance between Gawuna and Kwankwaso could reshape electoral dynamics in the state. “If such a political alignment materialises, it could substantially influence voter behaviour, particularly among youth, religious leaders, and sections of the business community,” he said. Within APC circles, concerns have also been raised over what some supporters describe as Gawuna’s marginalisation since the 2023 elections, including limited inclusion in federal appointments and strategic party roles. There are also reports of dissatisfaction among his loyalists regarding unresolved entitlements following his tenure as deputy governor, a factor some observers believe may be contributing to the current political uncertainty. As developments continue to unfold, the coming weeks are expected to provide clearer direction on Gawuna’s political future and its broader implications for Kano politics ahead of 2027.

The Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has directed all political appointees intending to contest in the 2027 general elections to resign their appointments in compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act. The directive was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa. According to the statement, the directive was formally conveyed through an official circular signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Farouk Ibrahim, stressing the need for strict adherence to laws guiding the conduct of public office holders. The circular noted that the decision aligns with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act 2026, which regulates the participation of public officers in partisan political activities. Read Also: Mustapha Bala Dawaki and the Prospect of a 2027 Political Comeback 2027 Race: Ministers, Aides Set for Exit as Political Ambitions Intensify Why Engr. Abba Ganduje is Still Needed in Dawakin Tofa Federal Constituency It further stated that the measure is aimed at promoting neutrality, accountability, and integrity within the public service, while ensuring a level playing field for all aspirants. According to the directive, all affected political appointees are required to resign or retire, as applicable, on or before Tuesday, March 31, 2026. The government also directed all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to give the circular wide publicity and ensure full compliance.

A close associate of Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, Salihu Tanko Yakasai, has defected from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Yakasai announced his resignation from the APC in a statement shared on his Facebook page on Monday morning, confirming that he has formally joined the ADC. The former aide also posted a copy of his ADC membership card, indicating that he has completed his registration in his ward. In his message, Yakasai said the decision followed extensive consultations with political associates, family members, and allies. Read Also: Ganduje Performs Ramadan Lesser Hajj 2027 Race: Ministers, Aides Set for Exit as Political Ambitions Intensify Separate Eid Prayers Signal Growing Political, Traditional Divide in Kano “After due consultations with friends, family, and political associates, we have decided to join the ADC as part of a new political journey,” he stated. He added that he had already submitted his resignation from the APC and completed his registration with the ADC, encouraging interested individuals to join the party through its online registration platform. Yakasai further prayed for the success of the ADC, expressing hope that the party would emerge victorious in future elections at all levels. This development marks another shift in Yakasai’s political trajectory. He had earlier defected from the APC to the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) in 2022, before returning to the APC after the 2023 general elections. His latest defection signals ongoing realignments within Kano’s political landscape as preparations gradually intensify ahead of future electoral contests.