Tension In Kano As Kwankwaso, Gawuna Near ADC Defection, Deputy Governor Resigns

Uneasy calm has enveloped Kano State’s political landscape amid growing speculation that the National Leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, may soon defect to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The development comes as talks intensify about a possible opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

It was gathered that the anticipated move has unsettled major political camps in the state, including allies of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

According to ThisDay, sources close to the development claim Kwankwaso is expected to formally join the ADC next week after holding consultations with opposition leaders, including Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar, during the recent Sallah celebrations in Kano.

The discussions are believed to be part of efforts to build a strong opposition alliance capable of challenging President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

If the move materialises, analysts say it could significantly reshape Nigeria’s political landscape.

There are also rumours that Nasiru Gawuna, the APC governorship candidate in the 2023 election, may abandon the ruling party and align with Kwankwaso in the ADC.

Commenting on the speculation during a radio programme, Professor Kamilu Fagge of Bayero University said the emerging alliance among opposition leaders appeared aimed at strengthening their chances in the next election.

According to him, the collaboration could provide a platform for opposition figures to combine their political influence and resources.

“Politics today is all about interest. Recently, Abba Kabir Yusuf left Kwankwaso and joined Ganduje in APC; equally, if Gawuna decides to pitch tent with Kwankwaso, it wouldn’t be surprising – that’s how our politicians behave,” Fagge said.

Political commentator Umar Labaran Danga said Gawuna’s potential defection could weaken the influence of former Kano governor Abdullahi Ganduje in the state.

He noted that Gawuna served as Ganduje’s deputy for nearly six years and remained one of his closest allies.

“Gawuna can contest an election under Kwankwaso or secure the future of his followers under Kwankwaso – he has all the opportunities; the sky’s the limit,” Danga said.

Sources within the APC also claimed attempts by Ganduje to prevent Gawuna’s exit from the party were unsuccessful following alleged negotiations between his supporters and Kwankwaso’s camp.

Meanwhile, Kano State Deputy Governor, Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, has resigned from office.

In a statement issued by the spokesperson of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, Dr Habibu Mohammed, the decision was described as a difficult one taken in the interest of stability and governance in the state.

According to the statement, recent circumstances had constrained the deputy governor’s ability to fully discharge the responsibilities of his office.

“In view of this, it has become imperative to allow the office to function optimally in the best interest of the public it is meant to serve,” the statement said.

The statement also clarified that Abdussalam’s resignation does not amount to an admission of allegations raised against him by the Kano State House of Assembly.

It added that the former deputy governor maintained his innocence and believed his public service record reflected his commitment to the people.

The statement further noted that Abdussalam intends to focus on strengthening the Kwankwasiyya Movement ahead of the 2027 general elections.