Kano North Showdown Ends as Gwarzo Backs Barau
By Ahmad Tijjani Abdul
KANO — A fierce political contest over the Kano North Senatorial District seat appears to have been resolved after former Deputy Governor and ex-Minister of State for Housing, Muhammad Tijjani Gwarzo, officially stepped down in support of the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin.
The development followed a series of closed-door meetings involving prominent political figures, including Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, former National Chairman of the APC, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and other key stakeholders in the state.
The rivalry between Senator Barau and Gwarzo had generated intense political tension within the APC in Kano, with supporters of both camps engaged in a prolonged struggle for control of the party’s Kano North structure.
Announcing his decision to withdraw from the race, Gwarzo said the move was made in the interest of unity and stability within the party ahead of future elections.
“After several meetings with stakeholders and interventions by our leaders, especially Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, I have decided to step down for my brother, Senator Barau Jibrin,” he said.
Gwarzo explained that preserving peace within the APC was more important than personal ambition, adding that party members must remain united to strengthen their electoral chances across all levels.
According to him, “We must continue to see ourselves as one family. Our collective interest should be the success of the APC and the progress of Kano State.”
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as a fatherly role in the reconciliation process, while appreciating Governor Yusuf and other party leaders for their efforts in resolving the dispute.
Responding to the gesture, Senator Barau Jibrin praised Governor Yusuf, Ganduje, and other stakeholders for facilitating the reconciliation, saying the outcome would further strengthen the APC in Kano.
Barau said the party would remain united and focused on ensuring victory for President Tinubu, Governor Yusuf, and other APC candidates in future elections.