DSP Barau Welcomes Shekarau, Gwarzo to APC
By Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu, Democracy Newsline Northern Bureau Chief
April 22, 2026
In a development that may reshape the political landscape of Kano State ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, has formally welcomed two prominent political figures—former Kano State Governor, Malam Ibrahim Shekarau, and former Senate Chief Whip, Senator Bello Hayatu Gwarzo—into the fold of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The defection of the veteran politicians from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) follows months of reported internal wrangling and leadership disputes within the opposition party in Kano State. Their exit marks yet another significant shift in the evolving dynamics of northern Nigerian politics, where alliances and loyalties continue to realign in anticipation of future electoral contests.
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In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Malam Ismail Mudashir, Senator Barau described the entry of Shekarau and Gwarzo into the APC as both strategic and symbolic. According to him, their wealth of experience, political influence, and grassroots appeal will strengthen the party’s base in Kano and beyond.
“I welcome the former Governor of Kano State, Malam Ibrahim Shekarau, and former Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Bello Hayatu Gwarzo, to the largest political party in Africa, the APC. These distinguished politicians are true progressives, and this is where they rightfully belong. Progressive politicians will always align with a progressive political party,” Barau stated.
Observers note that Malam Shekarau, a former Minister of Education and one of Kano’s most enduring political figures, commands considerable respect across party lines. His political career spans decades, during which he built a reputation for disciplined leadership and grassroots mobilization. Similarly, Senator Gwarzo, known for his legislative experience and deep ties within Kano North, brings significant political capital to his new party.
Senator Barau, who also serves as First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, expressed optimism that the APC’s growing momentum in Kano State will translate into electoral victories at all levels in 2027. He emphasized that the party’s expanding support base reflects a broader national trend.
“The increasing number of defections into the APC is a clear indication of the confidence Nigerians have in the leadership and vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. It also underscores the efforts being made at the state level to consolidate democratic gains and deliver good governance,” he added.
Political analysts suggest that the latest defections could intensify competition within the APC, particularly in Kano, a state known for its complex political structure and large voting population. While the move strengthens the ruling party numerically, it may also necessitate careful internal management to accommodate new entrants without alienating existing stakeholders.
At the grassroots level, reactions have been mixed but largely optimistic among APC supporters, who see the development as a unifying moment for progressive forces in the state. Meanwhile, PDP loyalists are expected to regroup and strategize as they confront the implications of losing two high-profile members.
As the countdown to 2027 gradually begins, the defection of Shekarau and Gwarzo signals not just a change of party affiliation, but a broader recalibration of political interests in Kano State—one that could have far-reaching consequences for both state and national politics.
With political realignments gathering pace, all eyes will remain on Kano as a key battleground, where experience, influence, and grassroots connection will likely determine the direction of the next electoral cycle.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, APRIL 22ND 2026)
