Kano governor names Garo as new deputy nominee
By Wellington Jopelo
Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has forwarded the name of Alhaji Murtala Garo to the State House of Assembly for confirmation as Deputy Governor. The move comes weeks after the office became vacant.
The nomination follows the resignation of former Deputy Governor Abdussalam Gwarzo on March 27, 2026, creating a leadership gap in the state’s executive arm.
In a statement issued by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mustapha Muhammad, the nomination was said to be in line with constitutional provisions guiding the replacement of a deputy governor.
According to the statement, the decision was reached after consultations with political leaders and stakeholders across the state, aimed at ensuring continuity in governance.
The governor has formally requested the Assembly to screen and approve Garo, describing him as a capable figure suited for the role.
Garo, 48, is considered a familiar face in Kano politics, having built a long career across different levels of government.
He previously served as Chairman of Kabo Local Government Area and later rose to become Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria in the state.
He also held key positions such as State Organising Secretary of his party and Special Adviser to the governor, giving him experience in both administrative and political roles.
In addition, Garo served as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, where he was involved in grassroots governance and traditional institution matters.
His political profile was further boosted when he emerged as the deputy governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress during the 2023 general elections.
Sources within government circles say his nomination is part of a broader effort to stabilise the administration following recent changes in the state leadership structure.
The governor’s camp believes Garo’s experience could help strengthen coordination between the executive and grassroots political structures.
The House of Assembly is expected to begin the screening process in the coming days, after which a final decision will be made on his confirmation.
If approved, Garo will assume office as deputy governor and work alongside the governor to drive policy implementation.
Officials say the appointment is expected to reinforce governance and maintain momentum in service delivery across the state.
The development marks a new phase in Kano’s political landscape as the administration moves to fill a key leadership position.