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

By Ahmad Muhammad Sani Gwarzo

The political landscape of Kano State took a significant turn as former governorship candidate, Inuwa Waya, formally announced that he will not be contesting the 2027 governorship election under the All Progressives Congress (APC). His declaration, made after a strategic meeting with his core political team, has sparked fresh conversations within the party and across the political spectrum of the state.

Waya’s announcement did not come lightly; rather, it emerged from what he described as a deep personal reflection on the best way he can contribute to the future of Kano. According to him, leadership goes beyond contesting for office, and meaningful service can take several forms.

He emphasized that stepping aside from the 2027 race was driven by his desire to serve the state “from a broader perspective,” focusing on areas where his experience and goodwill can deliver long-term developmental value to the people of Kano.

Despite his withdrawal from the governorship contest, Waya reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the APC, insisting that his loyalty to the party remains intact. He made it clear that he intends to remain an active participant in the party’s rebuilding process.

He noted that the APC must approach the 2027 election cycle with unity, clarity of purpose, and genuine collaboration among major stakeholders if it plans to reclaim its lost political footing in Kano.

Waya also expressed readiness to form alliances with credible personalities both within and outside the APC. To him, politics is most rewarding when cooperation replaces division, and sincerity is placed above personal interest.

Reflecting back on the 2023 governorship defeat, Waya openly acknowledged that the APC fell short due to a combination of factors, including weak leadership, lack of coordination, and internal miscalculations that cost the party its dominance.

He argued that the lessons of 2023 should serve as a serious wake-up call, reminding the party that victory requires discipline, foresight, and unity—qualities that were visibly absent during the last political cycle.

According to him, the APC must embrace internal reforms if it is to regain public trust. This involves strengthening the party’s internal structures, improving stakeholder engagement, and rebuilding bridges damaged by factional struggles.

Waya stressed that political success is never automatic. It must be earned through credibility, strategic planning, and clear communication with the electorate.

He pledged to dedicate his energy to supporting initiatives aimed at repositioning the APC as a stronger, more united, and more dependable political force ahead of 2027.

Beyond internal party matters, Waya seized the moment to commend Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for what he described as remarkable efforts in infrastructure, education, health, and social development across Kano State.

He said the administration’s ongoing projects reflect genuine dedication to improving the lives of the people, and such progress must be sustained irrespective of political affiliations.

Waya maintained that governance is a collective responsibility, and when a leader is doing well, it is only fair and patriotic to acknowledge it. He called on stakeholders to prioritize the welfare of the state over partisan rivalry.

By extending praise across party lines, Waya set an example of political maturity, demonstrating that good governance should never be overshadowed by political competition.

He urged Governor Yusuf to remain focused and continue delivering quality development initiatives that respond to the needs of the population.

Waya’s decision not to run in 2027 has already sparked reactions from political observers who argue that his maturity and honesty reflect a new brand of politics rooted in responsibility, humility, and patriotism.

Many believe that his withdrawal opens space for deeper conversation on rebuilding the APC, restructuring campaign frameworks, and preparing a united front for future contests.

Others say his influence within the party remains significant, and his role in repositioning the APC ahead of 2027 may be more powerful than a governorship candidacy itself.

Ultimately, Inuwa Waya’s announcement signals not an exit from political relevance, but a strategic redefinition of his role in shaping the future of Kano’s political journey.

As the countdown to 2027 begins, his message stands clear: service to the people transcends ambition, and the true measure of leadership lies in putting the collective good above personal aspirations.