Several influential leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State have thrown their support behind Murtala Garo, previously the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, for the vacant deputy governorship role. This collective backing suggests an internal push for consensus within the party.
The endorsement followed a strategy session held late Saturday, during which party leaders indicated that Mr Garo received substantial backing from the attendees, with particular favour shown by the established "old bloc" of the party.
The position became available after the resignation of the former Deputy Governor, Abdussalam Gwarzo, who stepped down amidst political shifts and reported disagreements within the state's leadership, making it necessary for key stakeholders to consult on a replacement.
Alhassan Ado-Doguwa, a former Majority Leader in the House of Representatives, led the advocacy for Mr Garo, recommending him to Governor Abba Yusuf for the position and characterizing him as both experienced and reliable.
"Garo is the most suitable candidate. He has remained consistent, patient and loyal. This is the kind of support the governor needs at a critical time," Mr Doguwa stated.
Although three individuals—Messrs Garo, Rabiu Bichi, and Kabiru Rurum—were initially put forward, discussions during the meeting reportedly leaned heavily towards Mr Garo, who is said to have secured approximately 90 percent of the support from those present.
Among the notable figures reportedly endorsing his candidacy are former Kano State Governor and ex-APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje; former Deputy Governor and ex-Minister of State for Housing, Abdullahi Gwarzo; House of Representatives member Abubakar Bichi; Kano South Senator Kawu Sumaila; Minister of State for the FCT, Mariya Bunkure; former Kano South Senator Garba Lado; APC chieftain A.A. Zaura; and former Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly, Hamisu Chidari, among others.
Supporters highlighted Mr Garo's political journey, which includes roles such as PDP organising secretary in 2007, special adviser under the Rabiu Kwankwaso administration, chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), and serving two terms as commissioner. He also served as the APC's deputy governorship candidate in the 2023 election.
They emphasized that Mr Garo, not currently holding an executive office, could assume the role without complications and would contribute to strengthening party unity in the state.
His potential appointment, they suggested, could stabilize Kano's political environment and bolster solidarity within the APC during this important period.
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