
By Mahmoud Muhammad Kano
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has dropped several candidates nominated by the Kwankwasiyya movement, led by former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, for elective tickets in Kano State. This decision is reportedly due to a breach of a pre-existing power-sharing agreement between the NDC and Kwankwasiyya, which allocated 60% of positions to Kwankwasiyya and 40% to the original NDC structure.
The affected candidates include those vying for federal constituencies such as Kumbotso, Nassarawa, and Kano Municipal, as well as State House of Assembly seats in Dala, Tarauni, and Kumbotso. Sources close to the matter reveal that the NDC leadership cited Kwankwasiyya’s failure to adhere to the agreed formula as the reason for the decision.
Kwankwaso has threatened to leave the party if his candidates are replaced, heightening tensions within the NDC ahead of the 2027 elections. Insiders claim that the move is a test of Kwankwaso’s influence within the party and could lead to a major split.
The power-sharing agreement was meant to ensure a smooth merger between the NDC and Kwankwasiyya, but it appears that the deal has hit a snag. Analysts believe that the NDC’s decision could have far-reaching implications for the party’s chances in the 2027 elections.
The Kwankwasiyya movement has been a significant force in Kano State politics, and Kwankwaso’s threat to leave the party is not being taken lightly. The NDC leadership is under pressure to resolve the issue amicably, but sources indicate that talks between the two sides have been inconclusive.
As the situation unfolds, supporters of the NDC are calling for calm and urging the party leadership to find a solution that works for all parties involved. The outcome of this standoff could have significant implications for the future of the NDC in Kano State and beyond.
The drama has also raised questions about the NDC’s preparedness for the 2027 elections, with some critics arguing that the party is too divided to mount a credible challenge to the ruling APC. Only time will tell how this will play out. However, Nasiru Gawuna and former deputy Governor Gwarzo were denied assess to the NDC leadership.