NDC settles Kano leadership rift, confirms Mairiga as chairman

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has ended the leadership crisis in its Kano State chapter, reaffirming Hon. Husaini Isah Mai Riga as the party’s substantive chairman in the state.

DAILY POST reports that the dispute arose after the defection of former Kano State governor and leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, Engr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, into the party, a development that stirred tension among members in Kano.

While some party members challenged Mai Riga’s authority, he maintained that his mandate remained intact, insisting he would not step down outside established procedures.

The impasse prompted intervention from the party’s national leadership, which convened a special meeting on Tuesday led by Senator Seriake Henry Dickson.

The meeting brought together Kwankwaso, the NDC Northwest Vice Chairman, Engr. Muhammad Sabo Bakin Zuwo, and other top party officials.

Following deliberations, the party resolved the dispute and upheld Mai Riga’s position as Kano State chairman.

Sources within the party indicated that Kwankwaso accepted the outcome, with alternative leadership roles allocated to him as part of the settlement.

Reacting to the resolution, Mai Riga thanked the party leadership and Kano residents for their backing during the standoff.

“I appreciate the support of our leaders and the people of Kano at this critical time,” he said, adding, “I also apologise to anyone I may have offended in recent days.”

He further disclosed that, “60 percent of the party’s leadership structure has been conceded to Kwankwaso, while I remain the chairman.”

The development is widely viewed as an effort by the party to restore cohesion and reinforce its internal framework ahead of the 2027 general elections.