A coalition of Kano-based youth and student organisations has appealed to Ibrahim Shekarau to step aside from the Kano Central senatorial race in the interest of party unity and fairness.
The coalition, which includes the National Association of Nigerian Students and the National Association of Kano State Students, instead endorsed Abdulsalam Abdulkarim Zaura as the most deserving candidate.
Addressing a press conference in Kano, the group described Shekarau as a respected elder but urged him to play a fatherly role in ensuring justice within the party.
“We call upon Malam Ibrahim Shekarau to act as a father of the state and not allow his name to be associated with any perceived injustice,” the coalition said.
They argued that giving the ticket to a returning member over a loyal party figure would send the wrong message to party faithful.
“It would be unfair to sideline those who kept the party’s structure alive in difficult times,” the statement added.
The coalition emphasised that Zaura’s contributions to the party and his previous candidacy make him a natural choice for the ticket.
“With Murtala Sule Garo now settled in the executive arm, it is only just and equitable that AA Zaura be given the opportunity to re-contest,” they said.
They warned that any decision perceived as unjust could create internal divisions and weaken the party ahead of the 2027 elections.
“The youth are watching, and they expect leadership decisions that reflect fairness and inclusiveness,” the coalition stated.
The group concluded by expressing hope that party leaders would take a decision that upholds justice and strengthens unity within the party.
