A major political storm is brewing in Kano and within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) following the resignation of Nasiru Gawuna, Chairman of the Governing Board of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), amid strong indications that he is set to defect to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Kwankwasiyya in alliance with Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
News Point Nigeria reports that Gawuna’s move, coming on the heels of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive for political appointees to resign ahead of the 2027 elections, has triggered high-level interventions and intense political calculations within the APC.
In a resignation letter dated March 27, 2026, Gawuna announced his immediate exit from the FMBN board, citing compliance with the President’s directive in line with the Electoral Act.
“My resignation is in strict compliance with the President’s directive requiring all political appointees to step down,” the letter stated.
He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, describing his tenure as a privilege that allowed him to contribute to national development.
Gawuna also noted that he was placing his future “in the hands of Allah (SWT),” while pledging a smooth transition process in accordance with established procedures.
Multiple party insiders confirmed that Gawuna has concluded arrangements to defect from the APC to the ADC, where he is expected to align politically with Kwankwaso, a dominant force in Kano politics and leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement.
The planned defection, expected to be formalised imminently, is already generating excitement within Kwankwaso’s camp while causing deep rancor within the APC.
Sources revealed that Gawuna’s move is strategically aimed at positioning himself for the 2027 governorship race against incumbent Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
The development has reportedly prompted urgent intervention from the presidency, with President Tinubu said to have directed top party figures to halt Gawuna’s defection.
Insiders disclosed that a powerful senator from Zamfara State and a presidential adviser have been mandated to engage Gawuna and persuade him to remain within the APC fold.
“There is serious concern at the highest level. Gawuna’s defection could weaken the party’s structure in Kano and affect broader electoral calculations,” a source familiar with the directive said.
As part of efforts to retain him, the APC is reportedly considering offering Gawuna an automatic ticket for the Kano Central Senatorial District in the 2027 elections.
Gawuna’s recent movements have added to the intrigue surrounding his political future.
Sources revealed that he travelled to Saudi Arabia during Ramadan to perform Umrah but has yet to return to Nigeria weeks after the fasting period ended.
He is also believed to have proceeded on a private vacation to a North African country.
Party officials say repeated attempts to reach him have failed, with reports indicating that he deliberately placed his phone on “Do Not Disturb” mode to avoid mounting pressure from APC leaders.
A political analyst, Aminu Bashir, described the potential alliance between Gawuna and Kwankwaso as formidable.
“If Kwankwaso gives Gawuna the governorship ticket in ADC, it could be a massive game changer. Gawuna commands strong grassroots support among youths, religious leaders, and the business community,” he said.