By Abba Anwar

Recent events concerning endorsement of the Deputy Senate President, Distinguished Senator Barau I Jibrin, CFR, by the former Chairmen of local governments in Kano state, for the position of a governor, is not only attractive, the endorsement is a picture depicting what to come and what not to come.

Though some Chairmen came out immediately, to dissociate selves from the endorsement story, I still believe that, those who were with the DSP at the endorsement table, have every tight to make their own political choices. Yes political choice is a right ascribe to all citizens by laws, rules and regulations governing political behaviors of the citizenry.

Take it or leave it, such endorsements, including the one from the part of the former Commissioners, who served under the former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, CON, were not in place by nature or accident. Yes some of the Commissioners came out to dismiss, the endorsement, as did by some former Chairmen.

The thing is, Barau, Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna and Murtala Sule Garo, among others, have every right to contest for any position, come 2027 political rainy season. Even those who may have interest and waiting for the time and situation, to become deciding factors (raba gardama), they too, have an equal right to contest alongside Barau, Gawuna and Garo.

The debate about will it be Barau or Gawuna or Garo or any other person, is dependent upon examined chances, opportunities and rightful political behavior of the major actors. While a SWOT analysis can provide clearer platform for good assessment, individual belief in the real project, can also strengthen the entire process.

By SWOT analysis I mean, both the leadership and followership within the realm of All Progressives Congress (APC) and other non-APC people, including mere voters, those who only appear to cast vote during elections, but do not belong to any political party, demand to gauge and weigh individual preference concerning Strength, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT), then the real picture of who is likely to win or lose and election will emerge.

For example, one cannot still take away credits like attachment to grassroot, link with all segments of the party, deeply entrenched state visibility, frankness in all matters, display of clear direction to all people he relates with, real and genuine Tawakkul (giving everything to Allah), kalamu waheed (keeping his words), if you like and remembering his people under sun under rain, from Garo.

For Barau, you cannot take away from him qualities like, deep knowledge of national politics, more knowledgeable about worldview, carrying many things on his head, to the point that many see him as an always – busy-leader, who quickly forgets those around him, because he plans for their better tomorrow, very productive representative whose primary constituency is always in his chest and an a dear leader with an infrastructural-mind. You see structures everywhere courtesy him.

As for Gawuna, my reader and I, cannot take away from him qualities like, very charismatic, gorgeous, whose political gorgeousness takes him closer to people, particularly urban dwellers, receptive and accomodative appearance, from the first look at him, smily face, signifying open mind and simple.

My assessment of these gentlemen is how people see them. While I will not say a word on their shortcomings, because some could be subjective positions from people’s view, mine is just to give advice to the party, both leaders and followers and the endorsement process.

Lest I forget, left to me, Barau will be more productive when fixed in higher position there. Is just a matter of lobbying. If at all, we have good lobbyists from Kano, now. Any position above his current position. Or similar, with more impact. Mention any position that comes to your mind. This is my understanding of his self development. But one shouldn’t be shielded from his political choice. Yes agreed, he can be fix in all positions.

From the look of things, Gawuna – Garo ticket may not hold millions of litters of water. Hence, not a switchover of the duo’s ticket, but a provision of level playing ground, where each one of them has equal right and opportunity to contest for the gubernatorial seat. Whoever emerges at the intra – party election, can get the full support of the other. This, to me, is doable. Still Gawuna and Garo should have access and right to their freewill.

At the same time, those who appear to be cowards, politically, like Inuwa Waya, should be re-invited to rejoin the party and the race. At least for the life saving intervention of their political survival and strategy. Even if Waya is patiently waiting for any opportunity for returning match against those who alleged to have deceived him in the past, I think he should be patient enough to slug it out from within. He alone, for his political survival, is entitled to his democratic choice.

Kano’s gubernatorial race come 2027, may not witness anything close to an upcoming of a dark horse or dark horses in the race. Unless if a dark horse is abruptly coming from the other side of the table. I may be right or wrong. I also stand to be corrected.

For all aspirants, kindly remind yourselves the simple, bitter and indisputable truth that, resources alone are not always determining factor for political victory. What depicts this polical historicity are the cases of the period of the first civilian governor of old Kano state, Muhammad Abubakar Rimi. Followed by Malam Ibrahim Shekarau’s period.

Though during Rimi one could argue that, there was refined political ideology, as a driving force for democratic culture, democracy and political behavior for all the then political parties. But during Shakarau, political ideology was utterly absent compared to Rimi’s time. But there was a movement, called Guguwar Buhari or at best Buhariyya movement. In all the two scenarios nowhere, resources alone gave victory.

Politics goes with time, happenings, breaking situations, political development, existing structures, level of engagement and genuine realities at play. So 2027 will definitely not come with fresh polical ideology and Guguwar Buhari. But, and but, there could be a more fresher development that can take the centrestage.

Endorsement, endorsement and endorsement. I have no problem with any form of endorsement. But proponents of endorsement should be wise enough to play their cards in a way that they will not be swindled. I mean endorsement to any individual must be vigilant, strategic and cautious.

Come to think of these scenarios. Barau- Baffa Dan Agundi ticket, Garo-Zaura ticket, Gawuna-Garo ticket. A food for thought to all.

While Kano is bigger than imposition of candidates, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not a new entrant into political struggle and fight for sustainable democracy, if Kano APC will not and is not ready to work together, it is very simple for Tinubu to uproot them from the stage and replace them with any choice he deems fit.

My take. Where Garo can make a no-nonsense Governor, where discipline reigns, Gawuna can make a modern Governor, where charisma reigns and Barau can make a clever Governor whose attachment to all can be not strong and temporary, with sound knowledge of national politics.

Anwar writes from Kano
Thursday, 4th December, 2027

By Aminu Dahiru

Ever since the All Progressives Congress (APC) lost the 2023 governorship election in Kano State, a highly contested race, which ended in the court, I have been expecting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to find a space within his cabinet or somewhere else to accommodate the APC deputy governorship candidate of the party in the state in the 2023 election in Kano State, Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo.

My readers may ask why I am bringing up the issue of Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo now and of what significance is this call to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s political future.

I have observed and analyzed the president’s political journey, what some call the political sagacity of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and have come to the conclusion that Tinubu takes grassroots mobilization or movements and their movers seriously. This is one reason which makes the president a political wizard of our time. And by every standard, Murtala Sule Garo is out to add a touch of vitality to the “Renewed Hope Agenda”, which has its roots so deep in service to Nigeria.

Being the most populous state and potentially the biggest democracy in Nigeria, Kano remains a strong voting bloc capable of shaping elections. Therefore, identifying and drawing near those who can detect Kano’s political pulse should be one of the president’s prime concerns.

The political enigma, the youth triumphantly call “Commander”, Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo is a formidable political figure in Kano State and beyond. He commands hundreds of youth organizations.

For years, Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo has been in the possession of the string; he moves youth movements in the state at one go. However, this is not for nothing. Garo labored for it and conquered the hearts of youths. Youth and women empowerment, job creation, and commitment to social development top agendas in Alhaji Murtala Sule’s political dictionary.

Thick Political Muscles …

Arguably, aside from the immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje CON, Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo is the most prominent and active political figure in the APC in Kano State. The teaming youth and women he commands are evidence of this. From Garo in Kabo Local Government to Gabasawa LG, Dambata to Gaya LG, Commander’s political structure runs across the forty-four local government areas of Kano state; and this political motorcade slews through villages, towns and cities. Youths flow in on a daily basis.

For example, the one-million-man campaign march for Tinubu Ganduje led in Kano State prior to the 2023 presidential election, along with many more political mobilizations, owes its success to Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo’s effective mobilization skills. The commander is to Ganduje what “Man Friday” to Robinson Crusoe. Trust, loyalty and capacity bind the two political leaders.

Garo is Green…

The Tinubu administration needs to pay more attention to and invest more on nurturing youth – youth inclusion. Undoubtedly, the government has appointed youths into key positions. As President Tinubu envisaged it, still youth inclusion is the future of politics in Nigeria and Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo symbolizes healing, health, youth and political fertility. He is someone to whom hundreds of thousands of youths look up to.

A source of delight to Kano APC members…

In government and out of government this political figure has given a political lifeline to APC members in Kano State. For example, during Ramadan and Sallah festivities, Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo donated millions of naira to families, party elders and the APC social media team members. He has clung to this habit of fertilizing the party ever since.

It was to calm the nerves of the Commander’s teeming supporters that Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, on a podium, told the APC supporters in the state that Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo’s appointment is underway. This did not only put a smile on the faces of the audience, but also rekindled hope.

Youth have been yearning to see loyal party members and capacitated political leaders like Commander appointed into key positions; to them this, equates life and/or an ever-lasting commitment to their well-being.

Garo and Detractors
There are strong allegations that some individuals in key positions are working tirelessly to block Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo from receiving a federal government appointment. They fear that Commander’s rising popularity is eclipsing their perceived failure. But this approach is shortsighted and dangerous.

The APC in Kano state urgently needs Garo’s expertise and widespread appeal to unseat the ruling NNPP in 2027.

To date, despite his being out of government for a while, Garo is the most acceptable APC member in Kano state, owing to his generosity.

Kano 2023 governorship election

Despite the apparent challenges which hindered the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano from retaining the governorship seat, the party’s candidate, Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, still managed to secure 890,705 votes, representing approximately 45.03% of the total votes, as against Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, who polled 019,602, approximately 51.55%.

Traditionally the people of Kano state tend to grow disenchanted with any government or a political party after every eight years, often opting for change But Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo’s exceptional organisational capacity to mobilization skills played a crucial role in preventing the party from suffering a complete loss.

There were perceptions that the Buhari-led Federal Government was determined to politically humiliate former governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, thereby complicating the APC position in the state. We all know what happened in court.

Garo and Kano by-elections

Renowned politicians and political pundits have pointed out that the APC’s loss in Bagwai/Shanono state assembly by election and as well as its narrow escape from defeat in Ghari/Tsanyawa state assembly by-election can largely be attributed to the sidelining of Commander. The margin of 10,851 votes in Bagwai/Shanono was a clear sign of the party’s weakened grassroots presence. In Ghari/Tsanyawa it was alleged that over voting saved the APC from loss.

Many believe that the absence of a trusted grassroots mobilizer like Commander significantly impacted the APC’s performance in the elections. His deep connection with voters would have made a big difference and possibly led the party to victory.

Despite these encumbrances, based on the foregoing, I respectfully urge someone within the corridors of power to convey this crucial message to President Tinubu. The prolonged delay in the appointment of Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo should amicably and decisively be addressed.

Commander is a political asset akin to tonnes of fertilizer that has kept political fields in Kano State fertile and vibrant.

Your Excellency, granting a political appointment to this widely respected political figure will be a significant boost to the APC’s chances of reclaiming in 2027.

Aminu Dahiru wrote from Gwale, Kano

The resurgence of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State cannot be possible without the pivotal role being played by Senator Barau Jibril. Known for his humility, visionary leadership, and people-centered politics, Senator Barau has become a stabilizing force and a unifier whose actions have revitalized public confidence in the APC. His contributions span human development, infrastructure, peace-building, and political inclusivity that formed a comprehensive foundation for the party’s reclamation of political strength in Kano state. This can be attested by looking at the following:

Leadership Rooted in Humility and Compassion

Senator Barau Jibril’s rise to political prominence is anchored in a character defined by humility and compassion. His leadership style emphasizes service rather than self-promotion, fostering trust among citizens. He maintains a close relationship with communities, listens to their concerns, and approaches governance with empathy. This humility has positioned him as a leader who understands the struggles of ordinary people and responds with genuine care and approach that strengthens the APC’s moral legitimacy in Kano State.

Commitment to Human and Infrastructural Development

A key hallmark of Senator Barau’s political vision is his dedication to both human and infrastructural development. He consistently advocates for initiatives aimed at empowering citizens through education, skill acquisition, and economic opportunities. Additionally, his focus on infrastructure such as transport networks, public facilities, community development projects reflects his belief that strong physical structures are essential for long-term growth. By successfully merging these two dimensions of development, he has broadened the APC’s influence and demonstrated what purposeful leadership can achieve.

Healthy, Non-Vindictive Politics

In a society where political competition often breeds hostility, Senator Barau stands out for practicing politics without grudges. He maintains cordial relationships across political divides and emphasizes dialogue over confrontation. This disposition has helped reduce needless tensions within the state’s political environment and fostered unity within the APC. His insistence on reconciliation and maturity in political conduct has strengthened the party and endeared him to both supporters and neutral observers.

Equitable Execution of Capital Projects Across All Senatorial Districts

Senator Barau is widely acknowledged for ensuring that development does not stop at the borders of his constituencies. His approach prioritizes equity, ensuring that capital projects are executed across all senatorial districts of Kano State. This even distribution of development such as spanning roads, schools, health facilities, and community empowerment projects has created a sense of inclusion for all regions. As a result, citizens increasingly view the APC as a party committed to fairness and statewide progress.

Champion of Peace and Stability

Peace and stability are prerequisites for meaningful development, and Senator Barau has consistently championed both. Through active engagement with traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, and political actors, he promotes dialogue as the most effective conflict-resolution tool. His role in mediating tensions and encouraging harmonious coexistence has significantly contributed to the environment of political stability that allowed the APC to regain strong footing in the state.

Facilitating Federal Appointments for Kano Indigenes

Another key contribution of Senator Barau is his role in ensuring that Kano State indigenes are adequately represented at the federal level. Through strategic advocacy and political influence, he facilitated the appointments of qualified Kano citizens into various federal government positions. These appointments not only empower individuals but also strengthen Kano’s relevance in national decision-making. This inclusive representation boosts local confidence in the APC’s commitment to the state’s growth and visibility.

Advancing Education Through Institutions and Sponsorships

Senator Barau has also demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the advancement of Kano State. This is evident in his efforts to support the establishment of higher learning institutions and affiliated centers that expand access to quality education. Additionally, he has sponsored numerous students to pursue studies within Nigeria and abroad, thus fostering a new generation of empowered, skilled citizens. His dedication to education reflects his belief that developing human capital is the most sustainable path to long-term progress and political stability.

Finally, the political reclamation of Kano State by the APC will be a multifaceted achievement, and Senator Barau Jibril’s influence stands at its core. His humility, compassion, development-driven governance, peaceful politics, inclusive leadership, and unwavering investment in people have combined to strengthen the APC’s credibility and reconnect it with the aspirations of Kano’s citizens. Senator Barau represents a model of leadership where integrity meets action by offering a blueprint for how political service can truly uplift a state and its people.

Dr. Usman Suleiman Sarki Madobi