By: Dr. Sagir S. Buhari, FCIA
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State stands at a decisive moment. As the 2027 election approaches, one undeniable fact becomes clear: the party can defeat the ruling New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) only if it unites and puts its house fully in order. Politics is not won by a divided structure; victories are achieved through organisation, discipline, and a united leadership committed to a common purpose. For APC to reclaim Kano, unity is not just important it is the only realistic path to success.
No political party can effectively challenge an incumbent when it is weakened by internal conflicts, factionalism, and rival camps working at cross purposes. Every crack within the party becomes an advantage for the ruling NNPP, which wastes no time capitalising on the opposition’s disunity. APC must recognise that internal division is its greatest enemy, not the party in power. A fractured house cannot stand strong in the face of political competition.
As the election season approaches, it is important to understand that all political leaders have the right to contest any position, whether it is the Governorship, National Assembly, or other elective office. Party members must support their preferred candidates without insulting or attacking the choices of others. Politics is about choice, and every aspirant has the constitutional right to seek the support of the people.
It is also normal that as elections draw closer, politicians visit various aspirants for solidarity, consultation, and alliance building. This is part of the political process and should not create confusion or hostility within the party. One great strength of democracy is that it gives all candidates equal opportunity to test their popularity. In the coming months, APC will conduct its primaries, and every aspirant will have the chance to prove their strength at the ballot. Foul or abusive language must be avoided, as such behaviour weakens the party and creates unnecessary division. Only a united party can win elections.
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Leadership within APC is crucial. It goes beyond holding positions; it requires maturity, sacrifice, and the ability to inspire confidence among supporters. When leaders publicly disagree, operate in isolation, or prioritise personal interests above the collective progress of the party, followers lose direction. Supporters begin to feel discouraged, uncertain, and disconnected from the party’s vision. Nothing weakens an opposition party faster than losing the trust and enthusiasm of its own members.
If APC leaders want their members and followers to remain confident, energised, and committed, they must lead by example. They must demonstrate unity, focus, and sincerity of purpose. When leaders reconcile, work together, and speak with one voice, the party structure becomes stronger. But when leaders fight political cold wars against one another, the base becomes demoralised, and voters naturally shift loyalty toward parties that appear organised and stable.
To rebuild strength, APC must embrace genuine reconciliation. All factions, regardless of influence or background, must be brought together to address grievances, find common ground, and restore solidarity. Decisions must be taken collectively, not imposed by individuals or small groups. Internal democracy must be respected so that members feel valued and included. Above all, every leader must place the interest of the party above personal ambition. Elections are not won through ego or division; they are won through unity of purpose, discipline, and strategic cooperation.
Within APC in Kano State, two prominent figures are currently seen as the most likely gubernatorial contenders for 2027: Distinguished Senator Barau I. Jibrin and His Excellency, Dr. Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna. Each brings strong advantages, but these can only translate into victory if the party remains united. Senator Barau enjoys significant political capital both within Kano and nationally. His position in the National Assembly as Deputy Senate President has earned him visibility, negotiation power, and the ability to attract federal support and resources. His political structure is strong, wide-reaching, and experienced in election mobilisation. He appeals to many party members who believe APC needs a candidate with national weight to challenge NNPP effectively.
His Excellency Gawuna, on the other hand, has deep grassroots support and is widely respected for his humility, loyalty, and administrative competence. As a former Deputy Governor, he is well-known across local government structures in Kano. Many believe he represents stability, maturity, and continuity within the APC family.
Any loyal party member should prioritise the unity of the two political gladiators rather than exploit their rivalry for personal interest. Elections are won not by division, but by a party that is united, disciplined, and focused on a common goal. Both of them have strengths and loyal supporters, but neither can win alone if the party is divided. The biggest advantage APC can have in 2027 is unity, not individual popularity. A divided APC means NNPP wins automatically, regardless of who carries the APC ticket. This is why all supporters must show restraint, avoid abusive language, respect each aspirant, and allow the democratic process to proceed peacefully. When the primaries are done, all energy must shift toward supporting the winner as one strong APC family.
A united APC will not only regain the confidence of its supporters but also present a strong, credible alternative to the ruling NNPP. If the party chooses unity, works as one family, and speaks with a single voice, reclaiming Kano becomes achievable. The future of APC in Kano depends entirely on its ability to unite now. A united house wins elections; a divided one loses long before the contest begins.
Indeed, power and authority belong to Allah (SWT). May Allah (SWT) choose the best leaders for us.
God bless Kano State.
Dr. Sagir S. Buhari, FCIA
buharisageer@gmail.com
(Studied Political Science & International Relations)
4th December, 2025
