NDC Fires Back At Gov Yusuf Over Kano Bye-election Comments

The Kano State chapter of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has dismissed claims by Governor Abba Yusuf that its decision not to participate in the recently concluded Dawakin Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency bye-election was an indication of political weakness ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The party said its absence from the poll was a deliberate strategic decision aimed at strengthening its grassroots structure and preparing for larger electoral contests in the future.

The reaction followed remarks credited to the governor in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, in which he reportedly suggested that the NDC’s decision not to field a candidate in the bye-election signalled that the All Progressives Congress (APC) would retain political dominance in the state in 2027.

Responding to the governor’s comments, the NDC Chairman in Kano State, Hussaini Isa Mai Riga, said the party would not be distracted by political statements designed to score cheap points.

Naija News reports that in a statement issued through his media aide, Adam Said Adam, Mai Riga said the party’s attention was firmly fixed on building a formidable political structure across the 44 local government areas of the state.

According to him, the NDC is concentrating on grassroots mobilisation, party unity and strategic planning ahead of the next general elections.

“NDC is a party of strategy and discipline. Skipping one bye-election does not mean we are weak. It means we are focused on the bigger picture,” he said.

“Our priority is to consolidate our grassroots base, unite our members, and present credible candidates that Kano people can trust in 2027.”

The state chairman said the NDC had drawn lessons from Kano’s political history and the broader Nigerian political landscape and would not commit resources to contests that do not align with its long-term objectives.

He explained that the party was investing more energy in strengthening its structures, political education and policy formulation rather than participating in every electoral contest.

Mai Riga noted that the NDC was developing programmes aimed at addressing key challenges confronting residents, including unemployment, insecurity and economic hardship.

According to him, the party intends to offer practical solutions to the issues affecting ordinary citizens rather than engaging in unnecessary political distractions.

The NDC chairman expressed optimism about the party’s prospects in the 2027 governorship election, insisting that growing support across the state would translate into electoral success.

He also pointed to the influence and strength of the Kwankwasiyya movement within the party as a major factor that would boost its chances in future elections.

Mai Riga said the party remained confident that Kano voters would embrace its vision and leadership when the time comes.

He urged party members and supporters across the state to remain calm, avoid provocative actions and continue to engage in lawful political activities.

The NDC chairman also appealed to security agencies to maintain neutrality and professionalism as political activities gradually intensify ahead of the 2027 elections.

He stressed the need for a level playing field for all political parties to ensure a credible democratic process.

Reaffirming the party’s position, Mai Riga said the Kano chapter of the NDC remained committed to democratic principles, issue-based politics and the pursuit of good governance.

He maintained that the party’s focus was on offering the people of Kano State a credible alternative built on accountability, development and people-oriented policies.

“The NDC Kano Chapter remains committed to democratic values, issue-based politics and delivering good governance to the people of Kano State,” he stated.