**Ex-Ganduje Deputy evades calls as APC blocks Kwankwaso move
There are strong indications that former Kano State deputy governor, Nasir Yusuf Gawuna, has gone incommunicado amid mounting pressure from the presidency over his reported plan to defect from the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Multiple sources within the party revealed that Bola Ahmed Tinubu has intensified efforts to dissuade Gawuna from abandoning the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections. However, insiders say the former governorship candidate has become unreachable, allegedly switching his phone to “flight mode” to avoid persistent calls from key political stakeholders.
The development followed growing speculation that Gawuna is aligning with Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and the influential Kwankwasiyya Movement, in what is seen as a strategic realignment that could reshape Kano’s political landscape.
Party insiders suggest that the presidency’s intervention may have come too late, with indications that Gawuna has already made up his mind to exit the APC.
His reported silence has further complicated efforts by senior party figures, including a prominent senator and presidential aides, to reach him.
“The president is really concerned about Gawuna’s defection plan. This is not just about Kano politics; it has implications for the party’s strength across the North,” a source familiar with the situation disclosed.
Political analysts warn that a potential alliance between Gawuna and Kwankwaso could significantly alter the balance of power in Kano State, widely regarded as a key electoral stronghold in northern Nigeria.
“If Kwankwaso gives Gawuna the governorship ticket, it will be game over,” said political commentator Aminu Bashir. “Gawuna has a strong grassroots base, and combined with Kwankwaso’s machinery, it becomes a formidable force.”
Further fueling speculation, sources disclosed that Gawuna recently travelled abroad after performing Umrah and has since limited communication with political associates. His continued inaccessibility is being interpreted as a deliberate move to avoid pressure from APC leaders.
Within the APC, concerns are mounting that his defection could weaken party structures in Kano and deepen existing internal divisions. In a bid to retain him, the party is reportedly considering offering Gawuna an automatic senatorial ticket for Kano Central in 2027.
However, sources close to the former deputy governor suggest dissatisfaction with his treatment since the 2023 elections may be driving his decision. Supporters argue that despite securing over 800,000 votes as the party’s governorship candidate, he has been sidelined.
“It is baffling for the party to elevate individuals who worked against its interests while sidelining someone who delivered significant votes,” an APC stalwart said.
Observers note that beyond a routine defection, Gawuna’s potential move represents a broader political recalibration that could influence alliances and electoral outcomes ahead of 2027.
With tensions rising and communication lines reportedly shut, the unfolding situation underscores the high stakes in Kano politics as major actors begin positioning for the next electoral cycle.
