Tinubu Moves to Halt Gawuna’s Defection as Kano Political Tension Mounts

A former Deputy Governor of Kano State and 2023 governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nasir Yusuf Gawuna, has become the focus of intense political attention amid reports of a planned defection to the Kwankwasiyya movement.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is said to have directed top party figures to intervene and stop Gawuna from aligning with Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, a move believed to be aimed at strengthening opposition forces ahead of the 2027 elections.

Gawuna’s rumoured alliance with Kwankwaso is seen as a strategic effort to challenge the incumbent Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf. The development has stirred anxiety within the APC while energising supporters of the Kwankwasiyya movement.

Adding to the intrigue, Gawuna has reportedly been unreachable in recent days, with party stakeholders unable to contact him as consultations intensify. Sources indicate that he travelled to Saudi Arabia during Ramadan for Umrah and has yet to return, reportedly proceeding on a private trip to a North African country thereafter.

Insiders claim he deliberately placed his phone on “Do Not Disturb” mode to avoid mounting pressure from APC leaders seeking to dissuade him from defecting.

The situation has unsettled the Kano APC, with reports suggesting that Governor Yusuf has sought presidential backing to persuade Gawuna to remain in the party. In response, Tinubu is believed to have delegated influential figures to lead reconciliation efforts.

There are also indications that the APC may offer Gawuna an automatic ticket for the Kano Central Senatorial District in the 2027 elections as an incentive to retain his loyalty.

Political analysts warn that Gawuna’s defection could significantly alter Kano’s political landscape. With his strong grassroots support among youths, religious leaders, and the business community, a merger of his base with Kwankwaso’s influence could pose a formidable challenge to the APC.

Gawuna, who secured over 800,000 votes in the 2023 governorship election, has reportedly faced internal party marginalisation since his defeat. His supporters have also raised concerns over the alleged non-payment of his entitlements as a former deputy governor.

As speculation continues, his next move is expected to play a decisive role in shaping Kano’s political dynamics ahead of the 2027 general elections.