The Kano State governorship candidate of the New Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, has said the controversy over the initial omission of his name from the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) list of candidates has increased the party’s popularity and attracted more supporters ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
Gwarzo, whose name was subsequently restored to the commission’s list, said the development had vindicated the party’s position that it fulfilled all electoral requirements to participate in the forthcoming election.
His spokesperson, Ibrahim Garba Shuaibu, disclosed this while reacting to the restoration, insisting that the party was never intimidated by the initial omission because it had complied with the stipulated electoral procedures.
According to Shuaibu, the NDC conducted its membership registration, primary election and submission of candidates’ particulars in accordance with the relevant electoral guidelines.
He said the controversy, which some had expected to undermine the party, had instead generated public interest and sympathy, translating into increased support for the NDC.
“What some people thought would weaken us has instead brought us greater attention and strengthened our support base. The controversy has made more people interested in our party, our candidate and what we represent,” he said.
Shuaibu added that the restoration of Gwarzo’s name had strengthened the party’s confidence in the electoral process and reinforced its determination to contest the 2027 governorship election.
He maintained that the development would not distract the party from its political activities, stressing that its immediate priority was grassroots mobilisation and engagement with residents across Kano State’s 44 local government areas.
The spokesperson urged party supporters to remain peaceful, disciplined and committed to democratic participation, assuring that the NDC would continue to pursue its political ambitions through lawful means.
He expressed confidence that the party would consolidate its support base and remain focused on presenting its vision for Kano State as the 2027 governorship election approaches.
