The New Democratic Congress (NDC) has reportedly replaced several candidates previously nominated by the Kwankwasiyya political movement in Kano State as part of efforts to implement a newly brokered power-sharing agreement.
However, this development is already causing political ripples within the ranks of the Kwankwasiyya movement, which is led by the former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
According to an insider within the movement, Senator Kwankwaso is reportedly unhappy with the replacement of some of his die-hard loyalists. The source warned that if the situation is not resolved amicably, it could damage the public perception of the movement and pose a serious threat to the unity of the NDC in the state.
While one source hinted that Senator Kwankwaso might consider quitting the party over the issue, another source downplayed the threat, asserting that the friction would not force the Kwankwasiyya leader to defect. The second source described the disagreement as a “minor problem” that would ultimately be resolved.
The candidate adjustments were disclosed by the Kano State Chairman of the NDC, Hon. Hussaini Isah Mairiga, in a statement addressed to the party’s national leader, Senator Seriake Dickson; Kwankwasiyya leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso; and the NDC North-West Zonal Chairman, Alhaji Muhammadu Rabiu Sabo Bakinzuwo.
According to the statement, the party has approved Barrister Isma’il Idris Sani as its candidate for the Kumbotso Federal Constituency seat.
Other approved candidates include Nasiru Ali Ahmed for Nassarawa, Kabiru Ishaq Sa’id for Kano Municipal, and Barrister Dayyabu Jamilu Ibrahim for the Doguwa/Tudun Wada Federal Constituency.
The statement further announced that Muhammad Hamisu Abubakar will contest the Dawakin Tofa/Rimin Gado/Tofa Federal Constituency seat, while Ibrahim Bashir Bango was selected for the Sumaila/Takai Federal Constituency. Abdulmajid Isa Umar Mairigar Fata was also named the party’s candidate for Gwale.
In addition, the party confirmed adjustments to several Kano State House of Assembly candidacies, particularly in the Dala, Tarauni, Kumbotso, Ungogo, and Dawakin Kudu local government areas.
