Deputy Senate President Blamed for Gawuna's APC Exit, Accused of Blocking Garo Nomination
A political group within the All Progressives Congress has leveled serious accusations against Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, claiming he contributed significantly to the departure of former governorship candidate Yusuf Gawuna from the party. The Emerging Progressives Leaders' Forum alleges that internal party disputes and the sidelining of loyal figures have created growing dissatisfaction within Kano APC ranks.
Defection Linked to Missed Opportunities
The forum, in a statement issued in Abuja by its National Coordinator Hafiz Idris, asserted that Gawuna's exit to the African Democratic Congress stemmed directly from frustration over unfulfilled political promises following the 2023 election. According to the group, Gawuna's inability to secure a key appointment after losing the governorship race to Abba Kabir Yusuf played a crucial role in his decision to leave the ruling party.
The statement specifically pointed to Barau Jibrin's actions as weakening party cohesion in Kano State, arguing that the marginalization of dedicated party members has generated widespread discontent. The forum emphasized that Gawuna's departure reflects deeper structural grievances within the APC framework in the state, suggesting systemic issues beyond individual personalities.
Alleged Attempt to Block Deputy Governor Nomination
In a further escalation of tensions, the group accused the Deputy Senate President of actively working to prevent the emergence of Murtala Sule Garo as the next deputy governor of Kano State. Garo, who served as running mate to Gawuna in the previous election, has maintained strong political connections within party circles and is reportedly favored by Governor Yusuf for the position.
The forum highlighted Garo's historical loyalty to Barau, noting his significant contributions to the Deputy Senate President's past campaigns. Preventing his nomination would represent a serious breach of political trust and further deepen existing divisions among party stakeholders, the statement warned.
Governor's Preference Meets Resistance
Sources within the Kano State Government have indicated that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has already settled on Garo as his preferred choice to replace the outgoing deputy governor. This decision reportedly stems from Garo's extensive grassroots support and substantial political experience across various regions of the state.
However, resistance from influential political figures operating outside Kano has complicated the nomination process. The forum claims Barau Jibrin is "deeply uncomfortable" with Garo's potential emergence and is coordinating efforts to obstruct the nomination through various political channels.
Power Struggle Reshapes Kano Political Landscape
Political observers note that this conflict reflects a broader contest for influence in Kano as political alliances begin to realign ahead of future elections. The disagreement has drawn attention to competing interests operating within both state and national political circles, highlighting the complex interplay between local and federal power dynamics.
Despite mounting pressure, insiders maintain that Governor Yusuf remains committed to his choice of Garo for the deputy governor position. They suggest any potential reversal would depend on broader political calculations as tensions continue to escalate within the state's increasingly fractured political environment.
The situation underscores the volatile nature of Kano politics, where personal loyalties, party discipline, and strategic positioning often collide with dramatic consequences for political careers and party stability.
