2027: Barau’s Grip on Kano North Slips as Key Mobilisers Join NDC
From Muhammad Tuduwada Kano
Fresh political realignments have stirred Kano North Senatorial District after influential grassroots mobiliser Mustapha Yahaya Shuwaki and hundreds of his supporters announced their defection from the political camp of Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, to probably the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), he is yet to announce where they are going
The development, which came barely 24 hours after Shuwaki and his supporters were ceremonially received into the All Progressives Congress (APC), by Senator Barau has intensified political conversations over the stability of Barau’s grassroots structure.
Speaking during the defection gathering, Shuwaki said the decision followed broad consultations with supporters, community leaders and political associates across Kano North, insisting that the movement was driven by the aspirations of the people.
“Our commitment is to the people who entrusted us with leadership. After extensive consultations, we resolved to identify with a platform that reflects their collective interest,” he said.
NDC local leaders who welcomed the defectors, described the move as evidence of what they called a growing political shift across Kano North, arguing that more grassroots blocs were aligning with the party ahead of 2027.
The latest development adds to the unfolding contest for dominance in Kano North, where former allies and emerging power centres are increasingly repositioning for the next electoral cycle.
A frontline APC stalwart, Ibrahim Sani, acknowledged that the exit of influential grassroots figures could pose organisational challenges if internal grievances are not addressed promptly.
“The symbolism is significant because it happened almost immediately after a celebrated reception. It raises questions about internal reconciliation and the durability of political alliances,” Sani said.
Senator Barau has represented Kano North in the Senate since 2015 and is seeking to retain his political influence in the district amid intensifying competition from rival blocs.
As of press time, efforts to obtain the reaction of Senator Barau’s media team were unsuccessful.
