Kano Governor Yusuf Focuses on Governance, Downplays Re-Election Concerns

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has emphasized his dedication to fulfilling his first-term mandate, rejecting concerns about political pressure or plans for the 2027 elections.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, Director General of Media and Publicity at the Kano Government House, Yusuf dismissed speculation about the All Progressives Congress (APC) allegedly strategizing for future elections in the state.

“My focus is not on re-election,” the Governor stated. “I am more concerned with delivering the dividends of democracy during this tenure. Let the people of Kano judge my performance at the end of my term.”

Governor Yusuf criticized opposition efforts to stir political unrest and highlighted the resilience of his New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), which secured major electoral victories in 2019 and 2023 without holding any political office prior.

“We know those who were overwhelmingly rejected in 2019 and 2023,” he said. “We won decisively despite having no incumbency advantage, but by Allah’s will, we achieved a landslide victory.”

He further cautioned the APC against using divisive rhetoric that could intimidate voters ahead of future elections.

“I firmly believe that leadership is ordained by Allah. If it is His will, I will serve a second term. If not, I won’t. So, why should I stress over it?” Yusuf questioned.

Since the NNPP’s emergence, the APC has suffered significant losses in Kano, including the governorship, two senatorial seats, 18 out of 26 House of Representatives seats, and 26 out of 40 State Assembly seats in the 2023 elections.

The Governor’s remarks highlight his determination to focus on governance while sidestepping political distractions and speculations about 2027.