Politics

Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano In the ever-evolving theatre of Kano politics, where alliances are constantly tested and recalibrated, the re-emergence of Murtala Sule Garo in strategic conversations is stirring fresh debate across the state’s political landscape. Though not currently occupying a frontline executive role, his enduring influence within grassroots structures and institutional networks continues to position him as a figure of consequence, whose name is now being quietly projected in some quarters as a possible Deputy Governor under the administration of Abba Kabir Yusuf. Garo’s political journey reflects a steady climb built not on sudden prominence but on sustained engagement at the grassroots level. His tenure as Chairman of Kabo Local Government Area marked a defining period in his public service career, where he cultivated a reputation for accessibility and responsiveness. In a political environment where many leaders struggle to maintain direct connection with their constituencies, Garo’s approach resonated strongly among rural communities, laying a foundation that continues to underpin his relevance. His subsequent appointment as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs during the administration of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje further expanded his political reach and administrative experience. Operating at the delicate intersection of governance and traditional authority, he was tasked with overseeing local councils while maintaining cohesion with Kano’s deeply rooted traditional institutions. The role demanded tact and political intelligence, qualities that observers say enabled him to navigate complex relationships and consolidate a network that cuts across districts and political tendencies. In Kano’s political environment, relevance is rarely accidental; it is sustained through a careful balance of loyalty, visibility, and strategic restraint. Garo appears to have mastered this equilibrium. Despite shifts in political alignments and the often intense rivalry that defines the state’s politics, he has maintained a measured presence, avoiding unnecessary controversies while preserving his influence among key stakeholders. This has made him a figure that different interests may find acceptable, a valuable attribute in any consideration of executive partnership. Read Also: Kano Political Shift: Ganduje Hails Reps’ Defection to APC The growing speculation surrounding his possible elevation is not without strategic logic. For Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, any move to recalibrate the structure of governance would carry implications beyond administrative convenience. It would signal intent whether towards consolidating political support, broadening inclusivity, or stabilizing relationships across divides. In that context, Garo’s grassroots penetration, administrative background, and familiarity with both political and traditional institutions present a compelling profile. Yet, such a potential move would also attract scrutiny. Kano’s political space is layered with competing interests, and any decision of this magnitude would inevitably raise questions around alignment, loyalty, and the broader balance of power. It could reshape existing dynamics, revive dormant political networks, and alter calculations ahead of future contests, particularly in a state where political structures remain highly influential at both urban and rural levels. For now, the conversation remains speculative, but in Kano, speculation often serves as a precursor to reality. The recurring mention of Murtala Sule Garo in discussions of the deputy governorship reflects more than passing rumour; it underscores a sustained political presence built over time through grassroots connection and administrative experience. As the administration of Abba Kabir Yusuf continues to navigate the complexities of governance and political expectation, decisions around leadership structure will remain closely watched.

By Adamu Ahmad Khaleepa It’s not common in our society to see a woman aspiring for a political office, because of the deep-rooted societal attitudes which often relegate women to the home, viewing leadership as a male domain. Born in Brigade Tudun Wada Bus stop, area of Nassarawa Local Government, Kano state Nigeria, coming from a vast family background, she believes in inclusive and participatory leadership with a practical vision, measurable and people centered blueprint, designed not just to win an election, but to build a constituency that works for everyone. She understands the decline in general welfare and community progress as some of the draw back for the people of Nassarawa Local Government. Women in Nigerian politics face significant underrepresentation, with participation rates hovering around 6.7% in elective and appointive positions, far below the global average. Despite holding nearly half the population and notable strides in corporate leadership, women constitute only about 4% of the National Assembly. Looking at this challenges Hon. Samira Dilli holds on to her internal motive which drive her to aspire for a political office, working day and night to achieve a desired goal through passion and discipline. Read Also: Salihu Sagir Takai and the Politics of Succession in Kano As a woman at early fourtees, she believes in shared responsibility with young people, she believes that young people have the ability and capacity to decide what’s best for them, which is why Hon. Samira Dilli pledged to appoint aides from each of the eleven wards areas who will identify critical community needs, provide adequate and direct feedback to her, to ensure even distribution of development and promote accountability and fairness. Her leadership will not be based on empty speeches but on verifiable results anchored on three pillars, as described in her blueprint. Honorable Samira Dilli already conducted a basic need assessment withing the 11 wards of Nassarawa Local Government, to determine areas of urgent attention. The data compiled during the assessment, was analyzed and measures to be taken were written down as part of her planned activities in her 2027 campaign blueprint, these include construction of roads to boost trade, agriculture and the movement of goods and services, electricity as the backbone of business expansion, industrialization and digital advancement and provision of potable, affordable health care as the foundation of public health, agriculture, and productivity in community development. Hon. Samira Garba Dilli, is a Strategic professional with Bsc. International Relations and Diplomacy, MSc in peace studies and conflict resolution. She is a member Chartered Institute of Management & Leadership, member Association of Financial Analyst of Nigeria, Member Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered) as well as professional public speaker from Institute of Public Speaking. Honorable Samira Garba Dilli is a seasoned politician, an ambitious advocate with a strong political foundation and a passion for public service. Experienced in local, state and national campaigns, committed to community improvement and utilizing research to drive progressive policy-making. She served as member Trade and Economic Committee, Presidential campaign council for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu/Shettima Renewed Hope 2023 election campaign, where she contributed in shaping more dynamic economy, melding the best of the extant sectors with what is new on the economic horizon. As she truly represents competence, capacity, sincerity and compassion for the good people of Nasarawa constituency and Nigeria at large. As discussed with her, she explained that “besides all the experience, she has a clear focus of what she wants to bring to the table for people of Nassarawa constituency, in her own words ‘I Samira Dilli, have identified rising poverty and hardship, lack of economic opportunities, youth unemployment & underemployment, as some of the challenges facing Nassarawa Local Government constituency, and I’m ready to put feasible measures in place to mitigate such challenges’. With the support of Nassarawa Local Government constituents, we believe that Hon. Samira Garba Dilli will bring a sustainable solution to our social challenges. Adamu Ahmad Ibrahim, Executive Director, Arewa Health Promotion Initiative. 08089403454 ibrahimadamu5991@gmail.com

The political atmosphere in Kano State has grown increasingly tense as Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf faces mounting pressure over the selection of a new deputy governor, a decision now shaping power alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections. What began as a routine political process has evolved into a high-stakes contest involving competing interests within the All Progressives Congress (APC), with party leaders, regional blocs, and influential stakeholders all seeking to shape the final outcome. The situation intensified following the governor’s recent visit to Abuja, where he met with the immediate past National Chairman of the APC and Chairperson of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. The meeting, according to insiders, was aimed at consolidating political alliances and aligning strategies ahead of crucial decisions. At the centre of the unfolding contest is the reported endorsement of former Commissioner for Local Government, Murtala Sule Garo, by key power blocs, including figures within the Presidency. However, this move has sparked resistance from influential actors across Kano North and Kano South, who are pushing for a broader selection process rather than a single-candidate imposition. Read Also: CITAD Distributes School Materials to Nomadic Pupils in Kano, Urges Increased Govt Intervention APC Stakeholders Endorse Yusuf Buhari for House of Reps Seat in Katsina Why Gobirawa’s Centuries-Old Agrarian Life is at Risk in Kano Prominent political figures, including Barau Jibrin and Suleiman Abdulrahman Kawu Sumaila, are said to favour a shortlist approach, reflecting concerns over regional balance and inclusivity in power sharing. The debate has also drawn in other stakeholders, with alternative names such as Salisu Sagir Takai, Kabiru Lakwaya, Ahmed Garba Bichi, and Kabiru Rurum being floated across different camps, further complicating the decision-making process. Beyond the political calculations, questions have been raised about Garo’s suitability, with critics pointing to ongoing legal challenges and concerns over his perceived influence base. Some argue that his political strength is overstated, attributing his support largely to his previous position as Commissioner for Local Government under Ganduje, a role that placed him at the centre of grassroots financial structures. According to this view, much of the loyalty he commands may be transactional rather than institutional, raising doubts about his ability to independently mobilise electoral support. The contest has also reignited broader debates about the role of deputy governors in Nigeria’s political system. Many observers describe the office as largely ceremonial, often limited by the authority of the governor, with responsibilities that can be significantly curtailed depending on political dynamics. Analysts argue that while the position is constitutionally important, its practical influence is often shaped by the governor’s discretion, making the choice of occupant as much a political calculation as an administrative one. Amid the competing pressures, Governor Yusuf is said to be weighing multiple options, including previous understandings with key allies within the State Assembly. However, these arrangements are reportedly facing new challenges as external influences and internal party dynamics continue to evolve. There are also indications of growing involvement from the Presidency, with reports suggesting that Bola Ahmed Tinubu has taken interest in the process, further raising the stakes and intensifying pressure on the governor to arrive at a consensus candidate. For many observers, the unfolding scenario highlights the complex interplay between local politics, party structures, and national influence, all converging on a single decision that could shape Kano’s political trajectory. What governors and other political heavyweights must recognise is that the choice of a deputy governor is no longer merely an administrative necessity, but a strategic decision with far-reaching implications for political stability and electoral success. With 2027 on the horizon, Governor Yusuf faces what may be one of the most defining decisions of his political career that could determine not only the balance of power within the state but also his prospects for re-election.