The political atmosphere reached a fever pitch this week as the House of Assembly conducted the screening of Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo for the office of Deputy Governor. While the constitutional requirement for the screening is a formal administrative process, the scene at the Assembly complex told a much deeper story—one of party harmony, grassroots loyalty, and strategic realignment that appears to have unified the political landscape.
The nominee did not arrive as a lone figure; he was ushered into the chamber by a broad coalition of stakeholders spanning the entire spectrum of leadership. The sheer volume and diversity of the entourage served as an unmistakable confirmation of Garo’s acceptability across party structures and a testament to the view that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has made a strategic decision.
In a remarkable display of commitment, many of these stakeholders travelled from Abuja and other parts of the country specifically to witness the exercise. This movement of political actors back to the state capital underscored Garo’s wide appeal and the significance of his confirmation following the vacancy created on March 27, 2026. Among those present were prominent figures such as Hon. Abubakar Kabir Abubakar Bichi, Senator Kawu Sumaila, and Hon. Alhassan Ado Doguwa, alongside Dr. Mariya Mahmud Bunkure, Engr. Abdullahi Tijjani Gwarzo, Rt. Hon. Hamisu Ibrahim Chidari, Hon. Engr. Sani Bala Tsanyawa, Hon. Abdullahi Sani Rogo, Hon. Yusuf Ahmed Badau, Hon. Sagir Koki, and Hon. Abdullahi Mu’azu Gwarzo.
The endorsement of the party’s foundation was evident in the presence of members of the Elders Forum of the old APC. Distinguished figures such as former Speaker Hon. Abdulaziz Garba Gafasa, former Speaker Hon. Ya’u Yanshana, former Deputy Speaker Hon. Aliko Shu’aibu, former Deputy Speaker Hon. Kabiru Hassan Dashi, Alhaji Bako Laraba, Alhaji Abubakar Mai-Mai Kwanar Dangora, and Alhaji Talle Mai’unguwa, among others, were present in solidarity with the nominee. Their attendance signalled a bridge between the party’s past and its future, reinforcing a broad-based consensus around Garo’s emergence.
The depth of the wider delegation further highlighted the nominee’s reach. The entourage included members of the Forum of Former Commissioners (2015–2023), as well as numerous former Special Advisers, Senior Special Assistants, and heads of state agencies. This executive presence was complemented by strong grassroots representation, including former Local Government Chairmen and caucus leaders from all 44 LGAs, indicating that support for the nominee cuts across all levels.
Legislative backing was equally notable, with former Speakers and members of the State House of Assembly standing alongside both former and serving members of the House of Representatives. The turnout also reflected strong party structures, as current and former party executives joined the Women’s Wing in demonstrating internal cohesion. Social media influencers documented the moment in real time, while party marshals ensured order throughout the event.
By bringing together both the old guard and emerging actors, Murtala Garo has positioned himself as a consensus candidate capable of fostering unity and stability.
The event stands out as one of the most remarkable screening exercises in the state’s democratic history. Since the return to civilian rule in 1999, the House of Assembly has rarely witnessed such a large and diverse turnout in support of a single nominee. The mobilisation goes beyond routine politics, reflecting a strong collective interest in the outcome.
As the state prepares for a new phase, the message is clear: a convergence of leadership, grassroots support, and political alignment has shaped the path ahead. The Governor’s decision has not only filled a vacancy but also reinforced the foundation of the state’s political structure.
