Political activities in Kano State are entering another phase of realignment following reports that former Deputy Governor Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna may soon leave the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Gawuna, who is the NDC’s senatorial candidate, is reportedly holding consultations ahead of an expected move to the APC. The development gained attention after members of his political structure visited Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and his deputy, Murtala Sule Garo, in what has been described as a solidarity engagement.
The visit was confirmed in a statement released on Tuesday by Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the governor’s spokesperson.
The delegation was headed by Muhammad Badaru Umar, a political associate of Gawuna. Other members of the group included NDC Kano State Vice Chairman Ali Datti Yako, Mansur Isa Gawuna, Uba Tanko Mijinyawa, popularly known as Uba Danzainab, Aminu Umar Faruk, Sani Jibrin, Salisu Muhammad, Musa Sani Indabo, Muhammad Kabir Bala, Hassan Abba Abdullahi and Abdurrahman Muhammad.
During the meeting, Umar explained that the delegation was driven by its interest in the development and progress of Kano State. He said the discussions with Governor Yusuf and his deputy were part of ongoing consultations on how members of the group could contribute to the state’s advancement.
Yako also commended the Yusuf administration, expressing the view that the people of Kano had recognised what he described as the governor’s efforts to improve the state.
“Everyone knows that Governor Yusuf is working tirelessly to transform Kano State,” Yako said.
The development has since generated speculation that Gawuna and members of his political network could formally abandon the NDC and join the APC in the coming days.
Gawuna is regarded as an associate of former Kano State Governor and NDC vice presidential candidate Rabiu Kwankwaso. His possible movement to the APC could therefore trigger further political adjustments within Kano, particularly if prominent members of his camp decide to follow him.
The expected defection is coming at a time when political parties are stepping up negotiations, alliances and internal consultations ahead of the 2027 elections. Kano remains one of Nigeria’s most politically influential states, making movements involving major political figures significant to both the ruling party and opposition groups.
Former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad further fuelled the speculation in a post on X on Wednesday. According to him, Gawuna’s camp had visited Governor Yusuf in preparation for an eventual move away from the NDC.
“Last night, Dr. Gawuna’s team paid a solidarity visit to Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf ahead of their eventual defection,” Ahmad wrote.
The reported development follows another significant departure from the NDC in Kano. Senator Rufai Sani Hanga, who represents Kano Central Senatorial District, recently announced his resignation from the party.
Hanga communicated his decision in a letter dated August 3, 2026, addressed to the NDC Ward Chairman in Dakata Ward, located in Nassarawa Local Government Area.
The senator said his resignation followed personal consideration and extensive reflection. He explained that he intended to pursue other personal and professional interests.
“I am writing to formally notify you of my resignation from the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), effective from today, 3rd August 2026,” Hanga stated.
He expressed appreciation to the party leadership and members of his ward for their support during his membership of the organisation.
Hanga also asked the party to remove his details from its membership register and submitted his NDC membership card alongside the resignation letter.
His resignation reportedly came shortly after he met with President Bola Tinubu, an encounter that further intensified speculation about political movements and possible alliances ahead of the 2027 elections.
If Gawuna eventually joins the APC, the move could reshape political calculations in Kano and potentially strengthen the ruling party’s position as preparations for the next general election gather momentum.
