A coalition of youth and student groups in Kano has kicked against speculations that Ibrahim Shekarau may be handed the Kano Central senatorial ticket, insisting that the slot should go to loyal party stalwart Abdulsalam Abdulkarim Zaura.
The groups, including the Coalition for Better Kano, Concern Kano Citizens, the National Association of Nigerian Students Kano axis and the National Association of Kano State Students, described the move as unfair and potentially divisive.
Addressing a press conference, the coalition leader, Inyass Muhammad Auwal said rewarding a returning member ahead of long-standing loyalists would undermine the party’s credibility.
“To bypass a loyalist who has invested so much in favour of a newcomer—regardless of status—would send a dangerous signal that loyalty does not count,” the statement read.
While acknowledging Shekarau’s status as an elder statesman, the coalition urged him to distance himself from the alleged move.
“We respect Malam Shekarau, but we appeal to him to play a fatherly role and not allow his name to be used in a manner that creates injustice,” they said.
The groups maintained that Zaura remained committed to the party even after losing the last election and deserved another opportunity.
“AA Zaura contested with dedication and stood by the party when it mattered most. That level of sacrifice must be recognised,” the coalition added.
They also cited the recent political arrangement involving Murtala Sule Garo, saying similar principles of fairness should guide decisions on the senatorial ticket.
According to them, “equity and justice must not be selective; they must be consistent across all political decisions.”
The coalition warned that ignoring loyal members could trigger discontent within the party’s base ahead of the 2027 elections.
“The youth are watching closely. Any decision that appears unjust will have consequences for party unity and grassroots support,” the statement said.
They urged party leaders to uphold fairness and ensure that the Kano Central ticket reflects loyalty, sacrifice and internal democracy.