KANO — In a major political development ahead of the 2027 general elections, the national leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has officially named Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo as the Kano State governorship candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

Party Ticket Appointments

The announcement, made via Kwankwaso’s official social media channels on Friday, also unveiled the party’s choice for the Kano Central Senatorial District. Dr. Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, a former Deputy Governor of Kano State, has been selected to contest for the senatorial seat under the NDC banner.

Kwankwaso stated that these selections were finalized following extensive consultations, emphasizing that the decision-making process was rooted in values of "equity, fairness, loyalty, and competence."

Profiles of the Candidates

The appointments highlight a strategic realignment within Kano’s political landscape:

      •  Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo: A long-time ally of Kwankwaso, Gwarzo recently served as the Deputy Governor of Kano State. His political career spans decades, having previously served as Commissioner for State Affairs during Kwankwaso’s tenure as governor and as the Chairman of Gwarzo Local Government Area.

      •  Dr. Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna: A prominent political figure who served as Deputy Governor under the previous administration of Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. Gawuna was also the APC’s governorship candidate in the 2023 election before his recent defection to join forces with Kwankwaso and the NDC.

Political Context

The emergence of these candidates marks a significant shift as the newly formed Nigeria Democratic Congress positions itself for the upcoming electoral cycle. Kwankwaso expressed optimism regarding the party’s prospects, urging party members to ensure a peaceful and successful affirmation process as they prepare for the 2027 polls.