Ex-minister Gwarzo withdraws Kano north senatorial bid, backs Barau

Former Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi Tijjani Gwarzo, has withdrawn his ambition to contest the Kano North Senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 general elections, endorsing Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin as the consensus candidate.

Mr Gwarzo announced the decision in a statement issued on Tuesday following consultations with political stakeholders across national, state and zonal levels.

According to him, the move was made to preserve unity within the All Progressives Congress and strengthen the party ahead of the 2027 elections.

“In deference to His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu… and His Excellency, Abba Kabir Yusuf… I have reached the decision to step down my senatorial aspiration,” he stated.

The development reportedly followed a high-level meeting of APC stakeholders from Kano North held on Tuesday night.

The meeting was said to have been attended by Abba Kabir Yusuf, former APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, Kano APC Chairman Umar Haruna Doguwa, and Deputy Governor Murtala Sule Garo.

Sources said Gwarzo formally stepped down during the meeting and declared support for Barau’s re-election bid.

Appreciation to supporters

The former minister thanked his supporters, political allies, youth and women groups, religious leaders, and members of his media support network for standing by him during his consultations.

“I wish to sincerely appreciate the overwhelming support, goodwill, prayers and encouragement extended to me throughout this journey,” he said.

He also acknowledged the role played by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Ganduje, House of Representatives member Abubakar Kabir Abubakar Bichi, and Baffa Babba Danagundi in guiding the consultation process.

APC realignment ahead of 2027

Gwarzo reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC and pledged continued support for the party’s growth and electoral success.

The withdrawal is seen as part of broader political realignments and consensus-building efforts within the APC in Kano State ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Barau Jibrin currently represents Kano North Senatorial District and is widely expected to seek another term in office.