The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has intensified efforts to persuade former Kano State governorship candidate, Nasiru Gawuna, to contest the 2027 governorship election on its platform, as the party seeks to strengthen its political structure in key states ahead of the next general election.
Sources familiar with the development told Very Nigerian that top figures within the party have been engaging in consultations with Mr. Gawuna’s close political allies in a bid to convince him to accept the ADC governorship ticket.
According to the sources, the party has offered wide-ranging political concessions, including nominations for State House of Assembly and House of Representatives seats for loyalists aligned with the former deputy governor.
It was also gathered that ADC leaders have assured Mr. Gawuna of strong financial backing for his campaign should he agree to join the party and fly its flag in the 2027 race. Former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal, and former Ambassador Faruk Yabo are reportedly among prominent political actors spearheading the ongoing moves to bring Gawuna into the ADC.
Although Gawuna has previously reaffirmed loyalty to the Kwankwasiyya political movement, insiders say sustained pressure and attractive political arrangements from the ADC have triggered fresh deliberations within his camp.
The party is also yet to officially announce the winner of its Kano governorship primary, which was contested by Ibrahim Khalil and Ibrahim Little, a delay sources link to ongoing efforts to finalise discussions with Gawuna.
Mr. Gawuna, a former deputy governor of Kano State and APC governorship candidate in the 2023 election, remains one of the most influential opposition figures in the state, with a strong grassroots following across several local government areas.
Political observers believe his entry into the race under the ADC could significantly alter the dynamics of the 2027 governorship contest in Kano, particularly against the incumbent administration. Neither Mr. Gawuna nor ADC officials have publicly commented on the reported negotiations as of the time of filing this report.
