Kano Deputy Governor Race Concludes with Overwhelming Support for Garo
The prolonged debate surrounding the selection of a suitable nominee for the vacant Deputy Governor's position in Kano State has been decisively resolved. This follows the overwhelming endorsement of former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Murtala Sule Garo, by key stakeholders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
High-Level Meeting Seals Garo's Nomination
During a significant gathering held on Saturday, the legacy stakeholders of the APC, under the leadership of former National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, solidified Garo's candidacy. Out of 31 attendees, an impressive 27 sanctioned Garo to deputize Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, effectively quelling any remaining dissent.
Prominent figures who rallied behind Garo include former Kano State Governor and ex-APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje; Former Deputy Governor and Former Minister of State for Housing, Abdullahi Tijjani Gwarzo; Hon. Abubakar Kabir Bichi; and Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila. Additional APC chieftains endorsing the nomination comprise:
- Hon. Mariya Bunkure, Minister of State FCT
- Senator Garba Lado
- AA Zaura
- Former Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly, Hamisu Chidari
- House of Representatives member, Alhassan Ado Doguwa
- Hon. Abdulhamin Jibrin Kofa
- Hon. Abdullahi Sani Rogo
Grassroots Support and Political Acumen Cited
Hon. Alhassan Ado Doguwa, a former Leader of the House of Representatives, provided insights into the meeting's dynamics. He highlighted that despite minimal opposing voices, Garo's selection dominated due to his extensive grassroots support and loyalty. Doguwa emphasized Garo's proven track record as a council chairman and commissioner, which positions him as the most qualified candidate, dismissing other contenders as "mere shadow candidates."
Doguwa commended Governor Yusuf for delegating his authority as the APC leader in Kano to the legacy stakeholders, led by Dr. Ganduje, to propose three candidates. He noted that the stakeholders unanimously forwarded Garo's name, recognizing his unparalleled qualifications and influence across all 44 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the state.
Key Reasons for Garo's Endorsement
In his statement, Doguwa outlined the practical political rationale behind the decision:
- Garo served as the Deputy Gubernatorial candidate in the 2013 general elections, demonstrating his political outreach and popular support within party ranks.
- His widespread influence spans all 44 LGAs, and he hails from the Gwarzo Kabo federal constituency, aligning with the geographical background of the immediate former Deputy Governor from the Kwankwasiyya movement.
- Garo commands immense respect from both elders and youths, coupled with substantial political and administrative experience, making him exceptionally competent for the role.
Doguwa appealed to Governor Yusuf to graciously accept this popular decision, leveraging his constitutional discretion to finalize the appointment. This endorsement marks a pivotal step towards party unity and effective governance in Kano State.
