GAWUNA’S EXIT ROCKS KANO POLITICS AS 2027 RACE HEATS UP
Defection rumours to ADC intensify as APC moves to contain fallout over strategic resignation
By Political Correspondent
Kano
The political atmosphere in Kano State has been thrown into fresh uncertainty following the resignation of Nasiru Gawuna as Chairman of the Governing Board of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), triggering widespread speculation over his next political move ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Gawuna’s resignation, linked to a directive issued by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu requiring political appointees to step down ahead of the polls, has nonetheless sparked deeper political interpretations within the ruling APC.
Party insiders and political observers say the development may be a precursor to a major realignment, with strong indications that Gawuna is in advanced consultations with the ADC and political stakeholders aligned with former Kano governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
The alleged move has intensified political tension in Kano, where the Kwankwasiyya structure remains highly influential, and where Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf currently holds office.
While Gawuna’s resignation letter expressed appreciation to President Tinubu and pledged commitment to a smooth transition, his subsequent low public visibility and reported restricted communication have further fueled speculation about his political direction.
Within APC circles, concern is mounting over the possible implications of his defection, with party sources confirming emergency consultations aimed at retaining him within the party’s fold. Options reportedly being considered include strategic political reassignment and possible senatorial consideration for Kano Central.
Analysts warn that a successful alignment between Gawuna and Kwankwaso under the ADC platform could significantly alter electoral calculations in Kano State, especially given Gawuna’s grassroots appeal across key demographic groups.
As political maneuvering intensifies, observers say Kano is once again emerging as a critical battleground ahead of 2027, with shifting alliances signalling an early start to one of Nigeria’s most competitive electoral contests.
