Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has nominated his recently appointed deputy, Murtala Sule Garo, as his running mate for the 2027 governorship election, as he seeks re-election under the platform of the All Progressives Congress.
The governor’s spokesman, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday, saying Yusuf announced the decision during a strategic meeting with federal political appointees of President Bola Tinubu at the Kano Governor’s Lodge in Abuja.
Yusuf said his decision to retain Garo was based on his loyalty, commitment and contributions towards the development of Kano State since his appointment as deputy governor.
The governor described Garo as a dependable partner who had demonstrated competence, dedication and responsibility within the short period of serving as his deputy.
“I have no regrets for choosing Garo as my Deputy in the last few months, and he has proven to be the right choice so far. I want to confirm to you that I have every confidence in him,” Yusuf said.
He added that Garo’s support had strengthened the administration’s efforts towards implementing its development agenda and fulfilling promises made to the people of Kano.
“His contributions have been remarkable, and his commitment to the progress of Kano State has remained unquestionable. Together, we will continue to work towards achieving the goals we set for our people,” the governor added.
Garo was appointed deputy governor following the resignation of Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, who served as Governor Yusuf’s deputy from the beginning of the administration in 2023 until his exit from office.
The nomination comes against the backdrop of Governor Yusuf’s recent political realignment from the New Nigeria Peoples Party, under which he won the 2023 governorship election, to the All Progressives Congress ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The move has reshaped Kano’s political landscape as major parties intensify preparations for the next electoral contest in the state.
Governor Yusuf also urged party leaders, political appointees and supporters to remain united, saying collective commitment would be required to consolidate the administration’s achievements ahead of the 2027 election.
“We must remain focused, united and committed as we continue to build on the progress recorded by this administration and prepare for the challenges ahead,” he said.
Kano State, Nigeria’s most populous state with an estimated population of over 15 million people, remains one of the country’s most politically significant states. With more than 5.9 million registered voters recorded during the 2023 general elections, the state is expected to play a major role in shaping political outcomes in the North and nationally.
The 2027 governorship contest in Kano is expected to attract keen attention as political parties battle for control of a state with huge electoral influence and strategic importance.
West Trybe reports that the Yusuf-Garo ticket will contest the 2027 governorship election under the APC platform, amid ongoing political realignments and preparations by major political actors ahead of the next electoral cycle.
