Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has officially confirmed Deputy Governor Murtala Sule Garo as his running mate for the 2027 governorship election.

The announcement comes ahead of the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) deadline for the submission of candidates for next year’s election.

Garo was appointed deputy governor in April 2026 following the resignation of Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo after Governor Yusuf defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

His emergence ended months of political jostling for the position, with two other party members also seeking the office.

Governor Yusuf announced the decision during a strategic meeting with federal political appointees of President Bola Tinubu at the Kano Governor’s Lodge in Abuja.

In a statement issued on Monday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, Yusuf said the decision was informed by Garo’s loyalty, commitment and dedication to the development of Kano State since assuming office.

He expressed satisfaction with their working relationship, describing the deputy governor as competent, responsible and dependable.

“I have no regrets about choosing Murtala Sule Garo as my deputy in the last few months, and he has proven to be the right choice so far. I want to confirm to you that I have every confidence in him,” the governor said.

Yusuf also passed a vote of confidence in Garo, saying his contributions had strengthened the administration’s efforts to deliver meaningful development across the state.

He urged party leaders, political appointees and supporters to remain united as the administration consolidates on its achievements and prepares for the 2027 general elections.

Political observers believe the governor’s endorsement of Garo further consolidates the APC’s political structure in Kano ahead of the governorship poll.