APC IN KANO: TIME FOR STAKEHOLDERS TO ADDRESS INTERNAL CHALLENGES BEFORE 2027
By: Dr. Sagir S. Buhari, FCIA
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State is entering an important political period as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum. While the party has continued to expand its political structure in the state, there are internal issues and differences that deserve serious attention if the party is to maintain cohesion, effective coordination and cooperation among its members and stakeholders.
One of the major challenges is the relationship between old and new members of the APC. Differences in political backgrounds, interests and expectations are natural within a large political organisation, but when such differences are not properly managed, they can create mistrust, weaken coordination and affect cooperation at the grassroots.
There are also political disagreements among some ranking members of the APC within the National Assembly from Kano North. These differences deserve careful attention because disagreements among senior political figures can have wider consequences for party members and supporters across the state. Recent reports have drawn attention to tensions between political camps associated with the two personalities.
I therefore call on His Excellency, Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, the national leadership of the APC, respected party elders and other senior stakeholders to encourage dialogue among the concerned personalities and help resolve their differences through reconciliation. The objective should not be to take sides, but to strengthen unity, cooperation, consultation and political coordination within the party.
This intervention is important because disagreements among senior political figures can have wider consequences for party members and supporters at the grassroots. Addressing such issues early through dialogue can help prevent further divisions and create a stronger basis for cooperation as the 2027 elections approach.
Another issue that requires attention is the continuing political sensitivity surrounding the Kano Emirate matter and the supporters of Emir Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero. The APC leadership and other relevant stakeholders should approach this matter with wisdom, restraint and respect for the rule of law, while working to prevent the issue from becoming another source of political division among the people of Kano.
There are also concerns regarding former members of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) who are now part of the government and political structure of the APC, both in the state and at the national party level. Some party members may perceive that certain former NNPP members continue to maintain stronger political ties with former Governor Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. Whether or not such perceptions are accurate, they can contribute to mistrust and uncertainty within the political structure. The appropriate response is therefore to strengthen communication, consultation and confidence among all members rather than allowing assumptions to deepen divisions.
The general economic and social situation in Nigeria is another factor that political parties should not overlook. The experiences of citizens, including issues relating to the cost of living, employment, economic opportunities and access to basic services, can influence public attitudes towards political parties and candidates. Political leaders therefore need to remain attentive to the concerns of ordinary citizens and demonstrate through their actions that they understand the challenges facing the people.
The political landscape in Kano is also highly competitive. Reports indicate that Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso is the NDC’s vice-presidential candidate, while Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo has been nominated as the party’s Kano State governorship candidate, with Mustapha Kwankwaso as his running mate.
These developments underline the importance of political leadership, internal consultation and effective engagement with citizens by all political parties. For the APC, the priority should be to address its internal concerns constructively and ensure that disagreements do not prevent members from working together.
Some people may view these developments differently, and political disagreements are normal in a democratic society. However, the ability of a political party to manage differences through dialogue, consultation and reconciliation is an important part of maintaining an effective political organisation.
I therefore call on APC stakeholders, elders, leaders and supporters in Kano State to come together, discuss these issues openly and work towards rebuilding trust among members. Old and new members should see themselves as members of one political family, with the common responsibility of strengthening the party and serving the people.
The party should also strengthen internal consultation and coordination at the ward, local government, senatorial and state levels. Political leaders should listen to their members, accommodate legitimate differences and ensure that party structures remain open to dialogue.
The period before an election is the appropriate time to resolve internal disagreements, not after political campaigns have already commenced. Waiting until the final stages of the electoral process may make reconciliation more difficult.
The APC in Kano therefore needs a deliberate effort towards unity, cooperation, consultation and political synergy. Its leaders and stakeholders should place the broader interests of the party and the people of Kano above personal disagreements and political differences.
Ultimately, democracy is strengthened when political parties are able to manage internal disagreements peacefully, respect different opinions and provide room for dialogue and reconciliation. Kano State deserves a political environment where competition does not destroy relationships, and where political differences can be resolved without undermining peace, unity and development.
May Allah (SWT) bless Kano State and Nigeria, and grant us leaders who will serve the people with justice, wisdom, sincerity and dedication.
Ameen Ya Hayyu Ya Qayyum.
Dr. Sagir S. Buhari, FCIA
Former Director General, Research and Documentation Directorate, Government House, Kano State.
Member, Governing Council, Federal University of Science and Technology, Kabo, Kano State.
Email: buharisageer@gmail.com
3rd October, 2026
