Political analysts in Kano have dismissed claims by the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) that the All Progressives Congress (APC) lacks the capacity to win the 2027 elections without the influence of Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, describing the assertion as “political exaggeration” aimed at boosting NNPP’s relevance.
The reaction follows comments by the Kano NNPP Chairman, Mr. Hashimu Sulaiman Dungurawa, who alleged that the ruling party was “weak and confused” ahead of the next general elections.
However, political observer, Umar Idris Shuaibu, said the APC remains the most structured political organisation in Nigeria, currently strengthening its internal cohesion under the guidance of its national leaders, including the immediate past National Chairman and now Chairperson of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
Ganduje’s Influence Still Central in APC
Analysts maintain that despite NNPP’s claims, Dr. Ganduje continues to command enormous goodwill, deep political networks, and unmatched grassroots influence across Kano and the North West.
“Ganduje’s political structure did not collapse in 2023. In fact, it is still the most organised political machinery in Kano. His reach goes beyond party lines,” Umar noted.
Read Also:
APC Needs Unity, Not Division — Kano Analyst Defends Chairman Yilwatda
Why Tinubu Needs Ganduje To Win 2027
FG Announces 50 Tax Exemptions, Reliefs for Low-Income Earners, SMEs, Effective January 2026
He added that Ganduje’s leadership style during his tenure as APC National Chairman—particularly his role in reconciliation and expansion of the party nationwide—remains a major asset ahead of 2027.
APC’s National Strength ‘Unshaken’ Despite Opposition Claims
Contrary to the NNPP chairman’s position, the analyst said the APC is not in a position of weakness, stressing that political consultations are normal ahead of any election cycle.
“Every strong party builds bridges. The APC is not begging for alliances; it is strengthening national unity,” he reiterated.
He added that the NNPP’s comments were “an attempt to remain in the news as the party grapples with internal defections and declining influence.”
NNPP’s 2023 Performance ‘Overhyped’ — Analyst
Umar Idris Shuaibu also dismissed claims about NNPP’s electoral strength in 2023, arguing that the party benefitted largely from protest votes and ballot visibility issues, rather than from solid political structures.
“The NNPP’s success was situational, not structural. Their national impact remains minimal, and their strength is still largely confined to pockets of Kano,” he said.
Ganduje’s Legacy Projects Still Resonating in Kano
The analyst further argued that despite political differences, Dr. Ganduje’s infrastructural interventions and rural development initiatives continue to shape public sentiment positively.
Some of the key legacy projects include:
Construction of rural roads and bridges
Development of the Dansoshiya grazing reserve and Fulani settlement
Healthcare upgrades across rural communities
Improved water supply systems
Workers welfare
“These projects remain unmatched and continue to earn him respect across the state,” Umar confirmed it.
APC Preparing for 2027 With Renewed Strategy
Party insiders confirmed that the APC is intensifying mobilisation efforts to reclaim Kano in 2027, with Dr. Ganduje, federal appointees, and other key stakeholders coordinating support bases across all 44 local government areas.
“The 2027 contest will be based on performance, not propaganda,” an APC source said.
“The federal government’s interventions in infrastructure, security, and agriculture will reshape voter confidence.”
Conclusion
While the NNPP attempts to portray the APC as weakened, analysts insist the ruling party is simply entering a fresh phase of strategic reorganisation.
With Ganduje’s sustained political relevance, widened federal visibility, and deep-rooted national structures, the APC remains strongly positioned ahead of the 2027 elections.