Kano NDC Candidate Picks Kwankwaso’s Son as 2027 Running Mate

The governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress in Kano State, Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, has picked Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso as his running mate for the 2027 election.

Daily Trust reported that Mustapha, the son of former Kano governor and NNPP leader Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, was unveiled for the ticket after recent political movements within the Kwankwasiyya camp.

Premium Times also reported the development, describing it as a key move in Kano’s early 2027 alignment as rival blocs begin positioning ahead of the governorship race.

Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso previously served as commissioner for youths and sports in Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration before resigning and following his father after their political split.

Kwankwasiyya spokesperson Habibu Saleh Mohammed confirmed the announcement in a statement, saying Gwarzo had unveiled Mustapha as his running mate.

The choice gives the NDC ticket a direct link to the Kwankwaso political structure, which remains one of the most influential forces in Kano politics.

It also raises the stakes in the state’s 2027 race, where party platforms, family networks and defections are likely to shape alliances long before the official campaign period.

The announcement will now draw scrutiny from both supporters and opponents as Kano’s political blocs test their strength ahead of the next governorship contest.

It may also intensify arguments over succession, influence and whether the NDC can convert the Kwankwasiyya network into votes under a different party banner.

For rival parties, the decision provides an early target as campaigns begin framing the race around loyalty, family influence and control of Kano political structures.

Sources: Daily Trust, Premium Times