Kano PDP crisis: Wali, Little form alliance to challenge new party structure

The crisis in the Kano State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has intensified, as two prominent figures, Sadiq Aminu Wali and Ibrahim Ali Amin (Little), have joined forces to oppose the party’s newly elected leadership. Wali and Little, who were both gubernatorial aspirants under the party for the 2023 election, are challenging the […]

Kano PDP crisis: Wali, Little form alliance to challenge new party structure

The crisis in the Kano State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has intensified, as two prominent figures, Sadiq Aminu Wali and Ibrahim Ali Amin (Little), have joined forces to oppose the party’s newly elected leadership.

Wali and Little, who were both gubernatorial aspirants under the party for the 2023 election, are challenging the legitimacy of the new party officials, alleging that the election process was undemocratic and fraught with irregularities.

The alliance between Wali and Little marks their first public collaboration, coming after the party’s poor performance in the 2023 governorship election, where internal divisions led to multiple factions, with Wali, son of former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Aminu Wali and Mohammed Abacha, son of late General Sani Abacha, laying claim to the party’s gubernatorial ticket.

The PDP has struggled to maintain unity in Kano since its decentralisation before the 2023 general elections. But Wali and Little said they now aim to restore stability within the party and rebuild it ahead of the 2027 elections.

During a stakeholders meeting with representatives from the 44 LGAs in the state, Little, who spoke on behalf of both leaders, outlined the objectives of the alliance.

“Over the past few weeks, we decided to unite to rescue the PDP from the challenges caused by inadequate leadership. Our alliance aims to ensure PDP’s victory in Kano in 2027,” he said.

He contended that the processes governing ward and local government congresses were ignored, making the new leadership illegitimate.

“PDP is governed by rules and a constitution. The requirements for congresses were disregarded, and we are challenging this in court and through a petition to the party’s national leadership.”

Their alliance is coming on the heels of the emergence of Yusuf Ado Kibiya as the new Kano PDP chairman.

Kibiya, on Monday, introduced a five-point agenda focused on restoring the party’s reputation and influence, reinforcing democratic processes, selecting credible candidates, implementing a 10-year development programme and addressing state issues.

Reacting to the challenge posed by Wali and Little, Kibiya told Daily Trust that dissent is natural in a democratic setup and affirmed the party’s commitment to addressing their concerns.

“We don’t mind; naturally, there are pockets of complaints following elections.

“Reconciliation is the next step, and as chairman, I will ensure every faction and level of the party is included. No one should fear; we are determined to be as fair as possible,” Kibiya said.

He also extended an invitation to all PDP members, including non-party members, to join efforts in reshaping Kano’s political landscape.

“We urge every member, and even non-members, to join our movement to create a promising future for Kano State,” he said.