Kano Governor Yusuf Names Murtala Garo as Deputy Following Gwarzo’s Resignation

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has appointed Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo as the new Deputy Governor of the state, following the resignation of former deputy, Abdulsalam Gwarzo.

Gwarzo’s exit from office comes amid a prolonged political rift with the governor, largely stemming from his decision to defect from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress. His refusal to realign with the governor reportedly heightened tensions within the administration, prompting the Kano State House of Assembly to initiate impeachment proceedings against him.

As pressure mounted, Gwarzo tendered his resignation and subsequently pitched his political tent with the African Democratic Congress.

In a statement issued by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mustapha Muhammad, Governor Yusuf confirmed the nomination of Garo as Gwarzo’s replacement.

The governor cited Section 191(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which empowers a state governor to nominate a new deputy governor in the event of a vacancy, subject to the approval of the State House of Assembly.

The statement noted that Garo’s nomination followed wide consultations with key political stakeholders across the state, with the governor formally requesting legislative approval to complete the process.

At 48, Murtala Sule Garo is regarded as an experienced political figure with over two decades of public service. His track record includes serving as State Organising Secretary of his former party, Special Adviser to the Governor, and Chairman of Kabo Local Government Area.

He also held the position of Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Kano State and later served as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. In the 2023 general elections, Garo was the Deputy Governorship Candidate of the APC.

If confirmed by the State Assembly, Garo is expected to bring his extensive administrative experience to bear in supporting the Yusuf-led administration.