APC Group Accuses Deputy Senate President Barau of Driving Gawuna's Defection
A political pressure group within the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Emerging Progressives Leaders' Forum, has launched a scathing accusation against Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, holding him responsible for the defection of the party's 2023 governorship candidate in Kano State, Yusuf Gawuna, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). In a strongly worded statement issued on Thursday in Abuja and signed by its National Coordinator, Hafiz Idris, the group detailed allegations that Barau systematically undermined Gawuna's political future after his electoral defeat.
Allegations of Political Frustration
The group asserted that Barau intentionally frustrated Gawuna's chances of securing a strategic political appointment following his loss in the 2023 governorship election to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of the New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP). According to the forum, this deliberate obstruction created an untenable situation for Gawuna within the APC, ultimately compelling his decision to abandon the party for the ADC. The statement emphasized that this move represents a significant blow to APC's cohesion in Kano State, highlighting internal rifts that could impact future electoral prospects.
Plot to Block Deputy Governor Nomination
Further intensifying the controversy, the forum accused the Deputy Senate President of orchestrating efforts to block the nomination of Murtala Sule Garo, Gawuna's former running mate, as the next Deputy Governor of Kano State. This follows the resignation of Aminu Abdulsalam, creating a vacancy that has become a focal point of political maneuvering. The group recalled that Garo previously served as Barau's campaign director-general during the 2015 and 2019 elections, describing this as evidence of long-standing political loyalty that is now being betrayed.
The statement also referenced historical controversies surrounding Barau's political trajectory in 2015, noting that Garo, who hails from the same senatorial district, stood firmly by him during that turbulent period. This context adds weight to the allegations of ingratitude and strategic manipulation within Kano's complex political landscape.
Governor's Strategic Move and Resistance
Meanwhile, sources within the Kano State Government House have revealed that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has finalized plans to appoint Garo as Deputy Governor. This decision is reportedly based on Garo's strong grassroots appeal and his role as the APC deputy governorship candidate in the 2023 elections, which the governor views as a strategic option to strengthen political cohesion across the state. After evaluating several contenders, the governor has narrowed his choice to the Kano North politician, aiming to bridge regional divides and consolidate support.
However, this anticipated appointment is facing stiff resistance from influential figures in Abuja, with the group claiming that Barau is "deeply uncomfortable" with Garo's possible emergence. Allegedly, Barau is working behind the scenes to block the nomination, favoring an alternative candidate based on political considerations such as regional balance and personal influence. This opposition underscores the high-stakes nature of the appointment, which could reshape power dynamics in Kano.
Broader Political Implications
Political analysts interpret this situation as a reflection of a broader struggle for dominance within Kano's political structure, particularly as alignments begin to crystallize ahead of future elections. The tension between state-level ambitions and federal influences highlights the intricate interplay of loyalty, power, and strategy in Nigerian politics. Despite mounting pressure from Abuja, insiders insist that Governor Yusuf remains firm in his decision and is unlikely to reverse course unless confronted with significant political consequences that could threaten his administration's stability.
As tensions escalate, observers warn that the standoff could deepen divisions within the political class and trigger a wider power tussle in Kano State. This potential fallout raises concerns about governance efficiency and party unity, with implications that may extend beyond immediate appointments to affect electoral preparations and public trust. The Emerging Progressives Leaders' Forum has called for transparency and accountability, urging party leaders to address these allegations to prevent further defections and internal strife.
