Kano Youth Groups Reject Shekarau Rumours, Demand Senatorial Ticket for AA Zaura

The leadership of several prominent youth and student groups in Kano State has weighed in on the growing political speculation surrounding the Kano Central Senatorial ticket, urging the ruling party to uphold fairness, loyalty, and internal justice in its decision-making.

In a joint statement, the Coalition for Better Kano, Concern Kano Citizens, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Kano Axis, the National Association of Kano State Students (NAKSS), and Northern Student Stakeholders expressed concern over reports suggesting that the Kano Central senatorial ticket may be handed to former governor, Senator Malam Ibrahim Shekarau, following his recent return to the party.

The groups said while Shekarau remains a respected elder statesman, political decisions must be guided by equity and recognition of loyalty, particularly for those who stood by the party during challenging times.

They recalled that a similar principle of fairness was applied in the emergence of Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna as the party’s gubernatorial candidate, a move they said helped preserve unity and strengthen party structures.

According to the statement, key party loyalists such as Murtala Sule Garo and Abdulsalam Abdulkarim Zaura (popularly known as AA Zaura) played critical roles in advancing the party’s fortunes. Garo, who contested as deputy governor, is set to be sworn in as Deputy Governor, while Zaura contested the Kano Central senatorial seat and remained steadfast in his support for the party despite the outcome.

The youth groups argued that with Garo now positioned within the executive arm, fairness dictates that Zaura should be granted an automatic ticket to re-contest the Kano Central Senatorial seat.

“To sideline a committed party loyalist in favour of a returning member, regardless of stature, would send a troubling message that dedication and sacrifice are not valued,” the statement read.

They further called on party leaders to avoid decisions that could be perceived as unjust or politically ungrateful, warning that such actions could undermine confidence among young supporters and grassroots stakeholders.

The groups also appealed directly to Shekarau to demonstrate statesmanship by ensuring his name is not associated with any move that could create division or a sense of injustice within party ranks.

While noting that no official position has yet been announced by the party or the state government, the coalition said it was important to raise concerns early to guide what it described as a “fair and just outcome.”

“The youth and students of Kano are closely watching developments. Our continued support for the progress of the state is tied to the fairness and integrity demonstrated by its leaders,” the statement added.

The statement was signed by Inyass Muhammad Auwal, who spoke on behalf of the coalition and affiliated student bodies.