Politics

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent condolence visit to the Dantata family in Kano stirred a mix of emotions among residents not just for its solemn purpose, but also due to the absence of a familiar political figure, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Governor of Kano State. Although his absence was officially attributed to a pre-scheduled engagement in London, Ganduje’s nonappearance rekindled deep reflections on his leadership era, particularly among Kano residents who now draw comparisons between his administration and the current New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP)-led government. Related: When Dr. Ganduje Opened the APC Doors to Nigeria’s Top Politicians Across the neighborhoods of Kano metropolis and the ten local government areas that constitute the state capital zone, many residents expressed a growing sense of concern for Ganduje’s time in office. Some described it as a period of visible development, responsive governance, and hands-on leadership. Even his former critics now appear to acknowledge his contributions this time, with tones of reconsideration and, in some cases, in a significant nod to his enduring legacy. The NNPP government, on its part, claims to have fulfilled 85 percent of its campaign promises, a figure many Kano citizens believe does not align with their daily realities. Despite publicized achievements, numerous development sectors remain stagnant or underperforming compared to Ganduje’s administration. Read Also: Governor Abba Yusuf Says 85% of Campaign Promises Delivered Basic infrastructure projects initiated or completed under Ganduje such as road expansions, healthcare upgrades, agricultural schemes, and educational reforms have either slowed down or been neglected. Notably, the Dansoshiya Livestock and Milk Production initiative, envisioned to transform Kano’s pastoral economy, has not enjoyed the same continuity or prioritization under the current leadership. The flagship free education policy of the NNPP government, though widely promoted, faces significant implementation challenges. Parents still report paying unofficial fees, while many schools struggle with overcrowding and insufficient facilities. Malam Shamsuddeen Musa, a resident of Kano Municipal, noted that while Ganduje’s tenure had its flaws, it delivered tangible development. “Whether you liked his politics or not, you could not deny that things were moving forward,” he remarked. From 2015 to 2023, Ganduje prioritized infrastructure, human capital development, and the modernization of Kano as a megacity. His tenure saw improvements in markets that impacted business and boosted the state’s economic outlook. Initiatives like the Kantin Kwari Market modernization, GSM Market development, and low-cost housing schemes in places like Gurjiya stood out as people-focused projects. His support for federal infrastructure such as the Kano–Kaduna rail project, rehabilitation of key hospitals, establishment of the Kano Cancer Treatment Centre, Zoo Road Pediatric Hospital, and major investments in education are frequently cited as lasting legacies. His restructuring of the traditional emirate system though politically controversial, was widely recognized as a bold administrative move that extended development to newly elevated emirates like Rano, Gaya, Karaye, and Bichi. Many citizens now voice frustration that the momentum built under Ganduje has not been sustained. Projects such as the Kano Economic City and dam modernization efforts are either dormant or advancing at a sluggish pace. Sani Bala, a retired civil servant, summed up the growing sentiment and said “Ganduje may have had his critics, but at least you could see his footprints across Kano. What we have today is more talk than work.” Despite stepping down as APC National Chairman, Dr. Ganduje continues to command political respect. His long-standing alliance with President Tinubu, rooted in trust and shared political goals, remains intact. During the President’s recent Kano visit, the absence of such a close political ally did not go unnoticed and quickly became a talking point across the state. As the NNPP-led government continues to chart its course, many in Kano look back on the Ganduje years with fresh appreciation. Whether this is driven by unmet expectations or sincere recognition of his developmental achievements, one thing is certain, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje remains a powerful reference point in discussions around Kano’s political and governance trajectory. For many, his absence in moments like these only deepens the realization that his leadership may have been undervalued in real time. Beyond his 8-year tenure as Governor of Kano, Ganduje’s nearly two-year term as APC National Chairman also stands out. It was marked by strategic political consolidation, party stability, and widespread defections into the APC. He is credited with winning the loyalty of numerous seasoned politicians across party lines including governors, senators, and lawmakers. This influence stems not only from his academic credentials and civil service experience but also from over two decades of active political leadership. In a significant nod to that legacy, encomiums continue to pour in across Kano and beyond. Ganduje’s absence from governance may now be physical, but his presence is still very much felt, a testament to the enduring impact of his leadership. Umar Idris Shuaibu writes from Kano.

The Kwankwasiyya movement, once a dominant political force in Kano State, is navigating a turbulent political climate that threatens its stability and future relevance ahead of the 2027 general elections. With the original founders of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) reclaiming full control, the Kwankwasiyya group appears stranded without a strong political platform. Analysts say this development could severely undermine the movement’s capacity to contest future elections effectively. Related: Ganduje Lauded by Former Kano Cabinet for Party-Building Efforts Controversial policy decisions have further compounded the administration’s woes. Among these are the demolition of the historic Filin Idi Mosque, destruction of residential properties, and persistent allegations of financial mismanagement. These actions have reportedly strained relationships with the business community and eroded public trust. Tensions with security agencies have also escalated, with critics attributing the situation to a lack of administrative experience and governance skills within the leadership. The dissolution of five emirate councils, a deeply controversial decision, has only widened the disconnect between the government and many Kano residents. Since inception into the administration, observers note an absence of completed capital projects exceeding N1 billion. Abandoned projects litter the state, signaling what critics describe as a failure of governance and project execution. Read Also: Photos: Ganduje Inaugurated as Chairman of FAAN Board Further complicating matters, the administration’s strained relations with federal agencies and public criticism of the federal government could limit future support and funding. Political insiders claim that the governor has made repeated visits to Abuja allegedly up to a dozen in one week in a bid to lobby the presidency and APC stakeholders for permission to defect to the ruling party. Yet, this rumored defection plan is reportedly facing pushback from within the APC, largely due to past hostilities and the potential clash with the Kwankwasiyya godfather’s alleged presidential ambitions. The movement’s strained ties with other major political platforms like the PDP only worsen its isolation. Signs of Internal Discord and Defections The internal structure of the Kwankwasiyya movement is also reportedly under stress. Multiple sources say political appointees, including commissioners and heads of agencies, are being sidelined, deprived of funding and access to the governor. Meanwhile, disillusionment is growing among youths previously mobilized by the movement across all 44 local government areas, many of whom now feel neglected. There are also complaints of uneven distribution of development projects, with rural communities reportedly left out in favor of select urban areas. The resulting frustration is fueling a wave of defections, especially among Kwankwasiyya youth members. Prominent APC stakeholders in Kano are said to be receiving these defectors daily, signaling a decline in the movement’s grassroots support. In contrast, very few APC members have defected to the Kwankwasiyya camp, highlighting what many view as a deepening crisis within the movement’s ranks. As internal discord mounts and external pressures intensify, the Kwankwasiyya movement finds itself increasingly isolated, fighting to stay relevant in a rapidly shifting political landscape. Currently the Kwankwasiyya movement risks losing its once-formidable political influence. The coming months will be decisive, not only for the survival of the movement but also for its ability to reposition itself meaningfully within Kano’s evolving political terrain ahead of 2027. Sanusi Sa’id Kiru is a Director at the Progressive Institute (TPI), Abuja, and a former Commissioner of Education in Kano State.