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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

Aliyu Kombat Declares Total Support for Dr. Jamilu Gwamna’s Governorship Bid

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Aliyu Kombat Declares Total Support for Dr. Jamilu Gwamna’s Governorship Bid

By Our Political Reporter

Engineer Aliyu Mohammed Kombat has officially declared his support for the governorship ambition of Dr. Jamilu Ishiyaku Gwamna, describing him as a visionary leader with the capacity to transform Gombe State.

In a public statement issued on Wednesday, Kombat said his decision followed a series of consultations and meetings held with Dr. Gwamna, during which he carefully examined the aspirant’s vision, policies and development agenda for the state.

According to him, the discussions convinced him that Dr. Gwamna possesses a clear roadmap for the development of Gombe State and is committed to improving the welfare of its people.

Kombat stated that Dr. Gwamna’s plans focus on expanding infrastructure, empowering communities, creating educational opportunities, equipping young people with vocational skills, and improving the overall standard of living across the state.

He noted that these objectives align with his own aspiration for a more prosperous and progressive Gombe State.

“After extensive discussions and careful assessment of his vision and programmes, we are convinced that Dr. Jamilu Ishiyaku Gwamna has the leadership qualities, commitment and developmental agenda needed to move Gombe State forward,” he said.

Based on this conviction, Kombat formally announced his endorsement of Dr. Gwamna’s governorship aspiration and pledged his full support ahead of the next gubernatorial election.

He also called on his supporters, political associates, friends and the people of Gombe State to unite behind Dr. Gwamna by supporting and voting for him, expressing confidence that his leadership would bring sustainable development and good governance.

Kombat expressed appreciation to his supporters for their continued loyalty, trust and cooperation, assuring them that he would continue to uphold the confidence they have placed in him.

He concluded by praying for Allah’s guidance and blessings throughout the political journey, asking for success and what is best for the people of Gombe State.

The endorsement is expected to strengthen Dr. Jamilu Ishiyaku Gwamna’s political support base as preparations intensify ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in Gombe State.

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Hamma Saleh Felicitates Muslims, Rejects Pantami’s Alleged Imposition as PDP Candidate in Gombe

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By Our Political Reporter

A prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Gombe State, Alhaji Abdulkadir Hamma Saleh, has felicitated with Muslims across the state while also expressing strong opposition to what he described as the alleged imposition of Dr. Isa Ali Pantami as the party’s governorship candidate ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a statement made available to journalists, Hamma Saleh called on his supporters and political associates across the state to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding despite growing tensions surrounding the party’s internal affairs.

According to him, the principles of justice, fairness, and due process must be respected within the PDP, stressing that no individual should be imposed on party members against their collective will.

He stated that every loyal party stakeholder deserves equal opportunity and fair participation in the democratic process, adding that attempts to sideline aspirants or manipulate the process could threaten unity within the party.

“Justice must prevail. Democracy is built on fairness, consultation, and respect for the wishes of party members,” he reportedly said.

Hamma Saleh further assured his supporters that he would challenge any action capable of undermining internal democracy within the PDP in the state, insisting that the party must remain committed to transparency and credible leadership selection.

The PDP stalwart also used the opportunity to extend warm greetings to Muslims in Gombe State, urging them to continue praying for peace, unity, and progress in the state and the country at large.

He appealed to party supporters not to engage in violence or acts capable of disrupting public peace, emphasizing that political disagreements should always be handled through legitimate and democratic means.

Political observers believe the development may signal fresh political tension within the PDP in Gombe State as preparations gradually begin ahead of the 2027 governorship race.

The party leadership in the state is yet to officially react to the allegations surrounding the reported endorsement or imposition of any governorship candidate.

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2027 Gombe Race: PDP Aspirants Reject Pantami, Warn of Legal Consequences

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By Our Political Reporter

Governorship aspirants of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Gombe State have cautioned the party leadership against what they described as an alleged attempt to “smuggle” former APC governorship aspirant, Prof. Isa Ali Pantami, into the party’s ongoing governorship primary process ahead of the 2027 elections.

The aspirants, in a communiqué issued on Sunday, argued that Prof. Pantami, who participated in the governorship primary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) held on May 21, 2026, could not lawfully defect to the PDP and contest another governorship primary within the same election cycle.

The communiqué was jointly signed by Alhaji Abdulkadir Hamma Saleh, Hon. Khamisu Ahmed Mailantarki, Usman Aliyu Garry, and Monica Kaltho.

The development comes days after Prof. Pantami announced his withdrawal from the APC governorship primary, citing alleged irregularities in the conduct of the exercise.

The PDP aspirants disclosed that, in the interest of party unity and cohesion, they had unanimously agreed to allow the leadership of the party in Gombe State to select a consensus candidate among them for the 2027 governorship election.

According to the communiqué, the decision was taken “in respect and deference to the leadership of our great party,” particularly the PDP leader in the state, Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, alongside members of the State Executive Committee, the 11 Local Government Chairmen, and the Elders Committee.

The aspirants stated that they had already signed a written undertaking pledging to abide by the final decision of the party leadership regarding the emergence of a consensus candidate.

“We therefore condemn in the strongest terms the alleged attempt to smuggle into the PDP primaries an aspirant who, by law and established democratic principles, is ineligible to participate, having already contested in the APC governorship primaries held on 21st May, 2026,” the communiqué read.

They further argued that the law does not permit a candidate to defect from one political party to another and subsequently participate in the same election process after votes had already been cast and counted in another party’s primary election.

While affirming that the PDP remains open to welcoming new members, the aspirants maintained that such individuals should not be allowed to join a primary process already at an advanced stage.

“We strongly object to any attempt to involve such a person in the ongoing PDP gubernatorial primaries,” they stated.

The aspirants also warned the party leadership against taking actions capable of exposing the PDP to avoidable legal disputes and internal crisis.

“We therefore call on the leadership of the party to be properly guided and to desist from promoting any action capable of undermining the rule of law or exposing the party to avoidable litigation,” the communiqué added.

They warned that any violation of due process could trigger serious legal challenges from aggrieved party members and even opposition parties.

The statement concluded with a cautionary note, saying, “As the saying goes, a stitch in time saves nine.”

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