Kwankwaso Threatens Exit from NDC Amid Candidate Replacement Dispute in Kano
A fresh political crisis may be brewing within the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) following the party’s decision to replace several candidates earlier submitted by the Kwankwasiyya movement in Kano State.
The development stems from an alleged violation of a power-sharing arrangement between the existing NDC leadership structure and the Kwankwasiyya bloc led by former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
According to reports, the Kano State chapter of the NDC reviewed and amended its list of candidates to align with a previously agreed formula governing the allocation of party positions and elective tickets.
In a document signed by Kano State NDC Chairman, Hon. Hussaini Isah Mairiga, the party explained that the changes were necessary to uphold the agreed framework between both political groups. Copies of the document were reportedly forwarded to NDC National Leader, Seriake Dickson, Kwankwaso, and the party’s North-West Zonal leadership.
Revised Federal Constituency Candidates
Under the updated arrangement, the NDC approved the following candidates for federal constituency elections in Kano State:
- Barrister Isma’il Idris Sani – Kumbotso Federal Constituency
- Nasiru Ali Ahmed – Nassarawa Federal Constituency
- Kabiru Ishaq Sa’id – Kano Municipal Federal Constituency
- Barrister Dayyabu Jamilu Ibrahim – Doguwa/Tudun Wada Federal Constituency
- Muhammad Hamisu Abubakar – Dawakin Tofa/Rimin Gado/Tofa Federal Constituency
- Ibrahim Bashir Bango – Sumaila/Takai Federal Constituency
- Abdulmajid Isa Umar Mairigar Fata – Gwale Federal Constituency
The party also announced adjustments to State House of Assembly tickets in several constituencies, including Dala, Tarauni, Kumbotso, Ungogo, and Dawakin Kudu.
Dispute Over 60/40 Power-Sharing Formula
At the center of the controversy is an existing agreement that reportedly provides for a 60-40 sharing formula between the Kwankwasiyya faction and the original NDC structure. Under the arrangement, the Kwankwasiyya bloc is entitled to 60 percent of elective positions and party offices, while the remaining 40 percent is reserved for members of the party’s existing structure.
Sources familiar with the matter indicated that the replacement of candidates was aimed at enforcing compliance with the agreement. However, the move has reportedly generated tension within the party, with indications that Kwankwaso may reconsider his political future in the NDC if the changes are not reversed.
Political observers believe the dispute could test the strength of the alliance between the NDC and the Kwankwasiyya movement ahead of future elections. The outcome of the disagreement may significantly influence the party’s political calculations in Kano State, a key battleground in Nigerian politics.
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As discussions continue behind the scenes, party members and supporters are closely watching developments to see whether both sides can reach a compromise and preserve their political partnership.
