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Uniting Kano: A Call to Action for Political Leaders and Elders

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By Suleiman Abdullahi

Vice President Kashim Shettima has issued a courageous and timely appeal to the political leadership of Kano State, urging them to set aside their differences for the greater good. During a recent condolence visit to the family of the late Galadiman Kano, Abbas Sanusi, Shettima emphasized the urgent need for reconciliation among Kano’s political factions, particularly between former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. His heartfelt plea for leaders to “put down their political swords” and prioritize the collective interests of the state marks a pivotal moment for a region long regarded as a beacon of peace and stability in Northern Nigeria.

Historically, Kano State has led the way in peace advocacy, serving as a model for coexistence and dialogue among diverse communities. Its rich cultural heritage, underscored by strong family values and profound respect for elders, has traditionally fostered unity and collective responsibility. However, the ongoing political rivalries have eroded this legacy, leading to an alarming rise in indiscipline and a decline in the respect for elders—principles that once defined Kano’s identity.

Today, the once-sturdy fabric of Kano’s society is under significant strain. The institution of the family, and indeed the revered Kano royalty, faces unprecedented challenges. As divisions deepen, outsiders seeking to exploit these rifts for selfish ends find fertile ground, putting both individuals and the larger society at risk.

At the heart of this instability lies the rivalry between Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje and Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, which has intensified political tensions and dealt a heavy blow to Kano’s socio-economic landscape. Merchants and investors, once eager to tap into Kano’s vibrant markets, now proceed with caution, wary of the escalating violence and insecurity. Reports of thuggery, violent clashes, and petty crime have created an atmosphere of fear, discouraging investment and threatening the livelihoods of countless local traders.

Complicating the situation further is the protracted tussle over the Kano Emirate, involving the reinstated Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, backed by the state government, and the 15th Emir, Aminu Ado Bayero, supported by federal security forces. This crisis has not only polarized the state but also reinforced a perception of instability that severely hampers societal and economic development.

The Emirship dispute reflects deeper societal divisions, distracting attention from the pressing needs of the people—economic revitalization, educational advancement, and infrastructural development. Rather than channeling energy and resources toward these essential goals, the community finds itself consumed by a struggle that benefits no one.

Tragically, Vice President Shettima’s recent call for unity was further undermined by the controversial appointment of Sanusi Ado Bayero as the new Galadiman Kano by his brother, Emir Aminu Ado Bayero. This appointment, made without the consent of state authorities, appears as a direct challenge to Shettima’s plea for reconciliation. Formalized in a letter dated April 21, 2025, and signed by a senior administrative officer of the so-called “Kano Emirate Council,” the decision came just weeks after the reinstated Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II had appointed Alhaji Mannir Sanusi as Galadiman Kano following the death of the previous titleholder.

The timing and manner of this parallel appointment not only deepen divisions within the Kano Emirate but also question the legitimacy of Aminu Ado Bayero’s actions. It suggests a prioritization of personal interests over collective welfare, further alienating key stakeholders and exacerbating tensions that deter economic growth and social harmony.

Moreover, Emir Aminu Ado Bayero’s current residence at the Nasarawa Palace is heavily guarded, with over 10 police vehicles stationed at entry and exit points. This stands in stark contrast to the insecurity faced daily by ordinary Kano citizens, who grapple with phone snatching, thuggery, and violence. Rather than embodying the spirit of service and sacrifice that traditional leadership demands, such displays of privilege deepen public resentment and mistrust.

In light of these challenges, now is the time for decisive action. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf must take a bold step by activating the committee he established to invite former governors and their deputies for a peace summit. This initiative could facilitate the reconciliation that Shettima passionately advocates, enabling influential leaders to collaboratively address the urgent issues facing Kano.

Additionally, reviving the Kano Elders’ Forum is imperative. This body of respected statesmen can provide a much-needed platform for mediation, helping to restore respect for traditional authority and heal the fractures within society. The ongoing Emirate crisis must also be swiftly resolved, alongside addressing the troubling division between the state government and security forces—an issue that has been shamelessly exploited by actors intent on destabilizing Kano.

Furthermore, there is a pressing need to encourage grassroots participation in decision-making processes, ensuring that the voices of ordinary citizens are heard and respected in the journey toward unity and progress.

The Path Forward

Convene a summit of former governors and deputies to foster dialogue and healing.

Revitalize the Kano Elders’ Forum to mediate conflicts and reinforce traditional values.

Encourage grassroots participation to strengthen democracy and community ownership of governance.

Conclusion

Vice President Kashim Shettima’s call for unity represents a vital and necessary step toward healing and progress in Kano State. By embracing collaboration, respect, and dialogue, Kano can reclaim its historic status as a hub of commerce, culture, and peace in Northern Nigeria. The values of discipline, community spirit, and respect for elders must not only be preserved but strengthened, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.

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Politics

Gombe 2027:ADC Chieftain Garkuwa Babba Dumps Party for APC, Pledges Grassroots Support for Inuwa,Jamilu

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By Our Political Reporter

The political landscape in Gombe State has recorded another major development ahead of the 2027 general elections, as a prominent chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Alhaji Mohammed Danjuma, popularly known as Garkuwa Babba, has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Garkuwa Babba, a former ADC aspirant for the Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency and National Chairman of the ADC House of Representatives Aspirants Forum, announced his decision to join the APC when he met with the Gombe State Governor and leader of the APC in the state, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, at the Governor’s Lodge in Abuja.

The defection is being viewed as a significant boost to the ruling APC, particularly because of Garkuwa Babba’s political network and grassroots presence across the state.

At the meeting, the former ADC chieftain pledged to mobilise his political structure and supporters for the APC ahead of the 2027 elections, specifically expressing support for Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s senatorial ambition, the APC governorship candidate, Dr. Jamilu Isiyaku Gwamna, and other candidates of the party.

The meeting was attended by Dr. Jamilu Gwamna and APC chieftain and philanthropist, Engr. Aliyu Mohammed Combat.

Why I Joined APC — Garkuwa Babba

Explaining his decision, Garkuwa Babba attributed his defection largely to what he described as Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s sterling leadership, performance and development record in Gombe State.

He commended the governor for what he described as tangible achievements across various sectors, arguing that the administration’s development initiatives had strengthened confidence in the APC among citizens.

According to him, his decision to join the APC was a deliberate move to identify with what he considers a development-oriented leadership and to contribute to the consolidation of the gains recorded under the present administration.

He also pledged to deploy his political contacts, supporters and grassroots structures towards ensuring the success of the APC in the 2027 elections.

Garkuwa Babba said his political mobilisation would extend beyond the governor’s senatorial aspiration to include the campaign for Dr. Jamilu Gwamna and other APC candidates contesting various elective positions.

Inuwa Yahaya Welcomes Defection

Receiving the former ADC chieftain, Governor Inuwa Yahaya expressed appreciation for his decision to join the APC, describing the development as a significant addition to the party.

The governor warmly welcomed Garkuwa Babba and his supporters into the APC and emphasised the importance of unity, loyalty and collective effort in advancing the interests of Gombe State.

Governor Inuwa said the APC remained open to individuals and groups who share its vision for a peaceful, stable and prosperous Gombe State.

He assured the new entrant that his political experience, grassroots network and wider reach would be valuable to the party as it continues to consolidate its political structure ahead of the 2027 elections.

Governor Calls for APC Unity

Governor Inuwa further called on APC members and stakeholders across the state to maintain unity and cohesion, stressing that the strength of the party lies in its ability to accommodate diverse interests while pursuing a common development agenda.

He urged party members to put collective interests above personal considerations and work together towards sustaining peace, stability and development in the state.

The latest defection comes at a time when political activities and realignments are intensifying across Gombe State ahead of the 2027 elections.

With Garkuwa Babba now formally joining the APC and pledging his grassroots structure to the party, the development is expected to generate further political calculations among the major parties as preparations for the next general elections gather momentum.

The development was contained in a statement issued by Ismaila Uba Misilli, Director-General, Press Affairs, Government House, Gombe.

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Yamaltu West Councillorship Aspirants Applaud Sa’adu Hassan’s Contributions to APC Development

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By Our Correspondent

The Yamaltu West Local Council Development Area (LCDA) Councillorship Aspirants Forum has commended the Executive Secretary of the Gombe State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Sa’adu Hassan, for his contributions to the growth and development of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Yamaltu West and Gombe State.

The forum gave the commendation on Wednesday when its members paid a familiarisation and solidarity visit to Alhaji Sa’adu Hassan, also known as Sardaunan Yamaltu, at his office.

The delegation was led by the Chairman of Yamaltu West LCDA, Hon. Seyoji Ahmed Kunji, popularly known as Chiroman Kunji.

The visit, according to the forum, was aimed at strengthening the relationship between party stakeholders and APC leadership, while recognising Sa’adu Hassan’s contributions to the political and socio-economic development of the community.

Speaking during the visit, Chairman of the forum, Hon. Isma’il Aliyu, described the engagement as timely and significant, stressing the need for unity, cooperation and collective commitment among party stakeholders to sustain the growth and success of the APC.

Aliyu commended Sa’adu Hassan for what he described as his commitment to the party and the people, particularly his efforts in public awareness, mobilisation and promoting cooperation among members of the community.

He assured the Executive Secretary of the forum’s continued support and cooperation, saying members remained committed to working together for the progress of the APC and the development of Yamaltu West.

Also speaking, the forum’s Secretary, Hon. Musa Ibrahim, expressed appreciation to Sa’adu Hassan for his dedication and efforts, describing his contributions as worthy of recognition and encouragement.

The forum members subsequently reaffirmed their commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at promoting unity, development and cooperation among party members and stakeholders in Gombe State.

Responding, Alhaji Sa’adu Hassan expressed appreciation to the councillorship aspirants for the visit, describing it as a source of encouragement that would motivate him to intensify his efforts towards the development of the APC in Yamaltu West, Gombe State and Nigeria.

He urged party loyalists to remain steadfast, united and committed to the ideals of the APC.

Sa’adu Hassan also cautioned party members against what he described as unsubstantiated statements and distractions from opposition parties, urging them to remain focused on community development and initiatives that would strengthen democracy and good governance.

He called on APC stakeholders to sustain peace and unity within the party, particularly as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.

According to him, collective effort and cooperation among party members and stakeholders remain essential to achieving the party’s political and developmental objectives.

As part of the reception, Alhaji Sa’adu Hassan presented ₦1 million in cash to members of the visiting delegation to assist with transportation expenses back to their respective localities.

He prayed for the safe return of the delegation and wished the members success in their future political engagements.

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Politics

BREAKING: Gombe PDP State Youth Leader Jamilu Ali Kalshingi Resigns From Party

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By Our Political Reporter

The State Youth Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Gombe State, Alhaji Jamilu Ali Kalshingi, has resigned from his position and membership of the party with immediate effect.

Kalshingi conveyed his decision in a resignation letter dated August 31, 2026, addressed to the Chairman of the PDP, Bolari West Ward, Gombe Local Government Area of Gombe State.

In the letter titled “Resignation from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP),” the former State Youth Leader said the decision followed careful consideration.

He described his time as State Youth Leader as an honour and expressed appreciation for the opportunity to work with dedicated members of the party in pursuing what he described as shared goals for youths in Gombe State.

“Serving as the State Youth Leader was an honour, and I appreciate the opportunity to work with dedicated party members towards our shared goals for the youth in Gombe State. I am proud of our milestones,” he stated.

Kalshingi explained that he had decided to move in a new direction which, according to him, required him to leave his affiliated party work in order to pursue broader commitments.

He, however, thanked the PDP leadership and members of the Bolari West Ward for their support and guidance during his time in the party.

The letter concluded with his appreciation for the party’s understanding of his decision.

His resignation comes at a politically significant period in Gombe State, where political parties and their supporters are already positioning themselves ahead of future electoral activities.

Kalshingi is also identified in the letterhead as the Executive Chairman of Dan Aleey Multiservice Ltd and Executive Chairman of Aljak Multi Global Ventures, with an address in Bolari Quarters, Gombe.

As of the date of the resignation letter, Kalshingi did not disclose in the document the political party or platform he may be joining next, nor did he state any specific disagreement with the PDP leadership as the reason for his departure.

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