Nasir Gawuna defection: APC intensifies lobbying to retain former Kano deputy governor amid talks of joining Kwankwasiyya or ADC
Former Kano State Deputy Governor and 2023 APC governorship candidate, Nasir Yusuf Gawuna, has become the focal point of intense political manoeuvring as the All Progressives Congress (APC) seeks to prevent his alleged defection to the Kwankwasiyya movement and the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
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Pressure intensified following reports that Mr. Gawuna is aligning with Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso in preparation for a potential challenge against incumbent Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf in the 2027 elections.
A delegation led by the chief imam of Gawuna’s neighbourhood mosque, Ahmed Sabo Usman, reportedly paid Sallah homage to Mr. Kwankwaso at his Miller Road residence, signalling growing political ties.
Insiders says efforts by senior APC leaders to reach Gawuna have failed, describing him as “unreachable” amid rumours of private political consultations outside Nigeria.
Sources confirmed that he travelled to Saudi Arabia for Umrah and subsequently embarked on a vacation in North Africa instead of returning to Nigeria immediately after Ramadan.
Party strategists reportedly fear that a Gawuna–Kwankwaso alliance could disrupt the APC’s stronghold in Kano.
“If Kwankwaso hands him the governorship ticket, it’s game over. Gawuna commands huge support among youths, clerics and the business community,” political analyst Aminu Bashir said.
President Bola Tinubu is said to have tasked a senior senator from Zamfara and a top presidential adviser to engage with Gawuna and dissuade him from leaving the party.
Among the incentives under consideration is an automatic APC ticket for the Kano Central Senatorial District in 2027.
Supporters of Gawuna have previously expressed discontent over his perceived marginalisation since the 2023 governorship election, citing exclusion from key federal appointments, strategic party roles, and delays in the payment of his former deputy governor entitlements.
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As speculation continues and Gawuna’s phone remains on “Do Not Disturb,” the APC is working urgently to contain a potential defection that could have far-reaching consequences for its political base in Kano ahead of the 2027 elections.
