Kano State politics took a dramatic turn on Wednesday as the leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, reportedly settled for former Deputy Governor Aminu Abdussalam as the consensus governorship candidate of the NDC ahead of the state governorship election.

Sources familiar with the development told DAILY NIGERIAN that the decision followed a series of closed-door consultations within the Kwankwasiyya Movement amid intense lobbying by different political blocs.

Abdussalam, who resigned as deputy governor in March following an impeachment notice issued by the Kano State House of Assembly, emerged after days of internal deliberations among party stakeholders.

Former APC governorship candidate, Nasiru Gawuna, was initially considered the leading contender for the ticket. However, sources disclosed that Kwankwaso offered Gawuna either the deputy governorship slot or the Kano Central Senatorial ticket during a meeting held on Wednesday.

Gawuna reportedly declined both offers, insisting that he joined the Kwankwasiyya Movement “unconditionally” and remained committed to working for the success of the party regardless of personal political gain.

Insiders within the movement said supporters of Gawuna argued that Kano Central should produce the governorship candidate to strengthen the party’s chances against Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, who also hails from the zone.

On the other hand, loyalists of Abdussalam reportedly pushed for his emergence, citing what they described as his “uncommon commitment and loyalty” to the Kwankwasiyya Movement over the years.

Sources further revealed that the delay in formally unveiling Abdussalam was due to sustained pressure on Kwankwaso by some stakeholders who urged him to reconsider Gawuna’s perceived electoral strength and political influence in the state.

An official announcement from the party is expected in the coming days.