Galadima’s Death Unites APC And NNPP In Kano State

The passing of Alhaji Abbas Sanusi, the Galadiman Kano and a prominent figure in the Kano Emirate Council, has had a surprising impact on the political scene in Kano State. His death has managed to bring together two long-time political rivals, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), who have clashed in the past.

Alhaji Abbas Sanusi, aged 92, died on April 1, 2025, after a long battle with illness. His funeral on the following day was attended by a broad spectrum of political figures, signaling an unexpected moment of unity. Among those present were APC’s Kano State Chairman, Abdullahi Abbas—who is also the son of the deceased—alongside the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin. Notably, the Sarkin Dawaki Babba, Aminu Babba Dan Agundi, was also present, an individual who had previously challenged the dissolution of the Kano Emirate and the removal of Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, a case still pending in court.

On the other hand, NNPP figures including former Governor and party leader Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, alongside Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and his deputy Aminu Abdussalam, were also seen at the event, as well as the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II. The funeral prayers were held at the residence of the Emir.

For years, Kano has been divided along political lines, particularly after the fallout between former Governor Kwankwaso and his ex-deputy, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who now serves as the National Chairman of the APC. The political tensions have been so intense that it seemed unimaginable for these factions to ever unite.

However, a brief statement by APC Chairman Abdullahi Abbas expressed his gratitude to the state government for their support during the funeral. “I’ve been shown great generosity by the Kano State government, His Excellency the Governor, his Deputy, and other government officials. I sincerely appreciate it. May Allah preserve our bond,” he said, signaling an unexpected moment of reconciliation.

Kano residents were equally taken aback by this apparent thaw in political tensions. Ibrahim Sa’id, a young man who attended the funeral, remarked, “I was shocked to see Abdullahi Abbas and Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf conversing respectfully. I hope this unity lasts for the progress of Kano State.”

While some expressed hope for a lasting peace, others were skeptical about the future. Usman, a local youth, stated, “I would love to see reconciliation and unity between Kwankwaso and Ganduje. These two individuals are the main problem of Kano politics, and as long as they do not unite, we will never progress.”

Similarly, an anonymous NNPP supporter added, “I never expected these people to come together again for any reason. Even though I doubt this unity will last, it serves as a lesson for supporters who take political rivalries too seriously.”

In a viral video circulating on social media, Sarkin Dawaki Babba, Aminu Babba Dan Agundi, was seen offering prayers and blessings to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf while holding his hand, further symbolizing this unique moment of unity.

Analysts view this rare political convergence as a significant event in the history of Kano’s politics. The death of Abbas Sanusi has, at least for a moment, brought together longstanding adversaries in a way few could have anticipated.

For more details on the current political climate in Kano, you can visit BBC News.

Check out our latest article on Kano State’s political developments for more insights.