2027: Kwankwaso’s defection to ADC won’t threaten APC in Kano – Ganduje

Former Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has dismissed concerns that the defection of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) will weaken the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, insisting that the ruling party remains firmly in control.

In an exclusive interview with BBC Hausa Service, Ganduje expressed confidence that the APC will retain the governorship of Kano, despite recent shifts within the opposition. Addressing the impact of Kwankwaso’s move to the ADC, Ganduje downplayed its significance, likening it to a bird moving from one branch to another.

He further stated that Kwankwaso’s decision to join the ADC marks the end of his political career, noting that the new party’s internal struggles for the presidential ticket will prevent it from achieving any meaningful success.

“Kwankwaso is like a bird moving from one branch to another, so he is not a threat to us at all,” Ganduje remarked. “This signifies the end of his political career because he joined a party where everyone has the ambition to become president, and that is why it will not achieve its goal.”

Ganduje also reiterated that the APC’s strong internal structure has ensured its continued dominance in Kano, citing the party’s ability to attract over 30 governors without facing any significant opposition. “We in the APC have a structure that has attracted over 30 governors to join us without any threat because they believe in what the federal government is doing,” he added.

On the defection of the APC’s 2023 governorship candidate, Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, to the ADC, Ganduje said that the move was a personal decision and consistent with democratic principles. He expressed no hard feelings towards Gawuna, suggesting that the defection was likely driven by Gawuna’s ambitions, particularly with the APC now firmly aligned behind Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. “The way I see democracy is that Gawuna has the right to make a choice, and as far as I am concerned, he did not betray anyone,” Ganduje said. “Most likely, he decided to move to a place where his ambition can be fulfilled.”

Ganduje also expressed his full support for the appointment of Murtala Sule Garo as Kano’s new deputy governor, following the resignation of Aminu Abdullahi Gwarzo. He described Garo as a well-qualified and experienced politician who is deserving of the position, given his extensive background in local government and public service. “Murtala Sule Garo is a befitting candidate for the deputy governor’s seat. He is a seasoned politician, having held the ALGON position, served twice as a local government chairman, and as Commissioner for Local Government,” Ganduje stated. “This position is right for him because it requires a diligent, honest, and peaceful person. That is why I am happy he got this position.”