Why Barau Jibrin’s Political Moves Make Him Unworthy of Kano’s Top Office

Senator Barau I. Jibrin, Nigeria’s Deputy Senate President, holds an influential position, poised to shape the nation’s political dynamics as the country’s fourth-highest-ranking official. His career trajectory and actions have made him a household name in Kano politics. Yet, as his ambition appears to intensify, recent moves have raised questions about the wisdom and effectiveness of his political strategy. While Kano and Nigeria as a whole grapple with pressing socio-political issues, Jibrin’s approach risks not only his aspirations but also the stability and cohesion of his base.

Senator Barau’s political journey began in 1999 when he served as a member of the House of Representatives and later as chair of the Appropriation Committee—a prestigious role that underscored his growing influence. After a temporary setback in 2003, his career saw a resurgence when former Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso appointed him Commissioner for Science and Technology, marking his return to political relevance. With Kwankwaso’s support, he eventually secured the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial ticket for Kano North, setting the stage for his rise to Deputy Senate President.

As the adage goes, “there are no permanent friends or enemies in politics, only permanent interests.” This principle, foundational in many political circles, resonates strongly in Kano’s intricate political terrain. Shortly after gaining prominence, Jibrin distanced himself from Kwankwaso, instead aligning with Abdullahi Ganduje—Kwankwaso’s former ally and now his fiercest political rival. While this shift may have seemed practical, it underscores a pattern: Jibrin’s political alliances often change to suit short-term objectives, creating a perception of opportunism that could undermine his reliability in the eyes of supporters and stakeholders.

Recent actions have highlighted Jibrin’s apparent willingness to prioritize his ambition over party unity and community trust. Observers note his involvement in the removal of Abdullahi Gwarzo, a well-regarded former Minister and fellow Kano North political figure, from office. Allegedly, Jibrin lobbied intensely for Gwarzo’s dismissal, a move that may have been intended to consolidate power within Kano’s APC ranks. Yet, rather than strengthening his base, this tactic appears to have alienated influential allies. Many in Kano North regard Gwarzo as a dependable leader who embodies accessibility and service, making him a natural ally rather than a rival for anyone with gubernatorial aspirations.

For Kano’s APC members, this kind of internal targeting may be too divisive to overlook. The backlash against Jibrin’s actions suggests that he may have underestimated the importance of maintaining cohesion within the party, a key element for securing Kano North’s support. The resulting tensions strain his relationship with local political elites and risk fracturing his potential gubernatorial campaign before it even begins.

Jibrin’s political alliances have not only been short-lived but have also attracted defectors whose loyalty appears as fleeting as their political pledges. For example, the recent wave of defections from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the APC was widely publicized, yet many of these defections were temporary and financially motivated. Notable figures, including popular TikToker Umma Wiyya, joined Jibrin’s camp only briefly before switching back—a move that underscores the transactional nature of these alliances.

This revolving-door pattern of defection reveals the limitations of a strategy focused on financial incentives over genuine political alignment. In Kano, where constituents value authenticity and accessibility, Jibrin’s image suffers when defectors are seen merely as pawns in a high-stakes game.

Kano’s dynamic socio-political fabric requires a leader who embodies not just ambition but also unity, empathy, and resilience. Politics in Kano goes beyond calculated alliances and power plays; it demands a connection to the community, a willingness to listen, and the vision to unify divergent interests. As Deputy Senate President, Jibrin holds an office that commands respect and wields influence, yet his current approach may be eroding his credibility and straining his ties with local stakeholders.

Moreover, Jibrin’s focus on consolidating personal power through financial incentives to defectors may misrepresent the values of Kano’s populace. People expect leaders who are approachable and proactive, who engage with the grassroots on issues that matter. Inaccessibility and prioritizing political gamesmanship over genuine community engagement are not the qualities Kano needs in a governor.

Senator Barau Jibrin must understand that the people of Kano State need a leader who values respect over wealth—a governor who sees relationships, culture, and good governance as pillars of progress, not mere transactions. If money alone were enough to secure the governorship, then individuals like Mohammed Abacha, Ibrahim Waya, or Sha’aban Ibrahim Sharada would already be among the former governors of Kano State.

Kano needs a leader who respects its rich culture and values, one who will draw investors and strengthen its position as the center of commerce. “A good name is worth more than gold,” as the adage goes, and Kano deserves a governor whose ambition is rooted in genuine service, not someone who relies solely on money to achieve power. A leader without a vision for the state cannot truly lead, and Kano deserves a governor with a clear blueprint for its future, someone dedicated to sustainable progress and prosperity for all.

If Senator Jibrin wishes to enhance his political standing and perhaps achieve his gubernatorial goals, a strategic realignment is essential. Rebuilding trust with local leaders like Abdullahi Gwarzo, maintaining stability within the APC, and fostering authentic connections with constituents could form the foundation of a credible campaign. Kano does not need a governor whose alliances shift with political winds; it needs a leader who represents stability, unity, and a steadfast commitment to its people.

As Deputy Senate President and a senator representing Kano North since 2015, you carry the aspirations of many. By prioritizing genuine connection and an inclusive vision, you could reposition yourself as a leader who transcends short-term conflicts for the long-term benefit of Kano. Reimagining your political approach may be the only viable path toward securing the Kano governorship—a position that demands integrity, wisdom, and a deep-seated respect for the state’s diverse voices.

The path to leadership requires more than ambition; it demands unity, humility, and a profound commitment to public service. Senator Jibrin, Kano’s people are watching, and the time for transformative leadership is now.

Garba Ubale Kankarofi is a political analyst and writes from Kano. He can be reached at +234 706 816 0279.