A Kano-based political analyst, Abdulkadir Ibrahim, popularly known as Abba Gwale, has expressed concern over what he described as the declining quality of emerging political leaders in Kano State.
In a post shared on Abba Gwale Facebook page on Tuesday night, Ibrahim said the current political structure appears to be producing loyalists rather than competent and visionary leaders.
Abba wale made the remarks while reacting to the announcement by the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), which named Mustapha Kwankwaso as the running mate to its governorship candidate, Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo.
According to him, the growing trend of selecting leaders based on loyalty and political convenience, rather than competence and integrity, could negatively affect the future of governance in the state.
He wrote, “Barring any major changes in the next couple of years, the future generation of political leadership in Kano does not look promising.”
Gwale stressed that political decision-making should prioritise long-term development rather than personal or factional interests, warning that such choices could shape the quality of future leadership in the state.
He added that individuals currently close to political power are most likely to occupy key offices in the future, raising concerns about the standards used in selecting them.
“The choice of a deputy governor should not be based solely on loyalty, political appeal, or the willingness to serve as a stooge. Competence, integrity, and moral character should also be key considerations,” he said.
The analyst further argued that his review of political actors across different blocs in the state reveals a gap in leadership capacity.
“I have looked at politicians from both blocs and I do not see many competent individuals. I do not see future leaders who can drive our state to the next level.
“Instead, I see people who are mainly effective at delivering election results or maintaining political structures,” he added.
While noting that unexpected figures could still emerge to change the situation, he said the current outlook remains concerning.
“Someone may emerge unexpectedly and change the narrative, but for now, the future does not appear bright,” he said.
The comments come after the NDC announced Mustapha Kwankwaso, former Kano State Commissioner for Youth and Sports and son of former Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, as its deputy governorship candidate for the 2027 elections.
