Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Former governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress in Kano State, Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, has formally resigned from the party in a move that underlines shifting political dynamics ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 electoral cycle.
Gawuna submitted his resignation in a letter dated March 29, 2026, addressed to the chairman of the APC in Gawuna Ward, Nassarawa Local Government Area of Kano State. In the letter, he stated that his decision to leave the party was voluntary and personal, expressing gratitude to the party for the opportunities he enjoyed during his membership, but indicating that his political journey would now take a new direction.
A prominent figure in Kano politics, Gawuna previously served as deputy governor of Kano State from 2018 until 2023, working alongside then governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. In the 2023 general election, he was the APC’s candidate for governor, contesting vigorously but ultimately falling short in the poll. His role in that contest and his broader political influence made him one of the party’s leading voices in the state.
Reports from political circles indicate that Gawuna’s resignation also followed his earlier step down from a federal position as Chairman of the Governing Board of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria. That resignation was connected to compliance with electoral requirements that prohibit holders of certain federal appointments from remaining in office while pursuing elective ambitions. This move fuelled speculation that Gawuna was positioning himself for further political engagement outside the APC.
Since leaving the party, sources close to Gawuna have hinted that he is engaged in consultations with key political figures and groups in Kano and beyond. Among those mentioned are influential stakeholders aligned with major opposition movements, including sections of the African Democratic Congress and other platforms actively restructuring ahead of 2027. These engagements suggest that Gawuna is exploring new alliances that could enhance his political relevance and prospects in upcoming elections.
In recent weeks, Kano State has seen intensified political realignments, particularly following the departure of former governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso from the New Nigeria People’s Party. Kwankwaso’s decision to exit his former party and align with another political formation has drawn significant attention, attracting senior politicians and reshaping local political equations. Gawuna’s resignation from the APC is widely seen as part of this broader pattern of repositioning among northern political elites.
Reactions within and outside the APC have been varied. Party loyalists in Kano have expressed respect for Gawuna’s decision, acknowledging his long service and contributions to the party’s activities. At the same time, they have reiterated confidence in the APC’s structural strength and capacity to remain competitive, even as individual members make personal choices about their affiliations.
Political analysts have interpreted Gawuna’s departure as a strategic recalibration in response to evolving electoral dynamics. With the 2027 elections approaching, both ruling and opposition parties are actively reshaping their strategies, recruiting influential figures, and forging new coalitions. In this context, high‑profile resignations and defections are often viewed not just as individual decisions but as indicators of broader shifts in political momentum.
Supporters of Gawuna have expressed optimism about his next steps, suggesting that his experience, network, and visibility in northern Nigerian politics position him well for continued influence, whether through a new party platform or in an advisory or leadership role within emerging political formations.
Observers are watching closely to see whether Gawuna will formally join another political party and whether his realignment will trigger further shifts within Kano’s political environment. His next moves could have ripple effects on party structures and alliances, particularly in a state known for its vibrant and competitive politics.
For now, Gawuna’s resignation stands as a notable development, reflecting the fluid nature of political affiliations in Nigeria’s multiparty system and the strategic calculations that often underpin moves by senior politicians in advance of major elections.
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