NNPP Sadly Suspends Senator Over Ties with Ganduje, Barau

NNPP Suspends Senator Over Ties with Ganduje, Barau

The Kano State chapter of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has suspended Senator Kawu Sumaila, the lawmaker representing Kano South Senatorial District.

He was suspended along with three prominent party members: Ali Madakin Gini, Sani Abdullahi Rogo, and Kabiru Alhassan Rurum.

Hashimu Suleiman Dungurawa, chairman of the NNPP in Kano, announced their suspension during a press briefing on Monday, citing alleged anti-party activities.

This development comes just 24 hours after the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, hinted at a mass defection of NNPP members to the APC.

Dungurawa stated that the affected members, who were elected to the National Assembly under the NNPP platform, had engaged in activities that contradicted the party’s principles and objectives. He criticized them for failing to uphold party loyalty despite benefiting from complementary tickets during the elections.

One of the key incidents that led to the suspension was the wedding ceremony of Senator Kawu Sumaila’s daughter and the commissioning of projects at his university in Sumaila. The event was attended by prominent APC figures, including Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau and Ganduje, while NNPP members were noticeably absent.

To address the issue, the NNPP has set up a committee to investigate the matter and ensure a resolution. Despite the suspension, Dungurawa emphasized that the party remains open to reconciliation.

He stated that if the suspended members acknowledge their actions and seek forgiveness, the party may consider reinstating them.

Kawu Sumaila: The Journey of a Dedicated Public Servant

Born on March 3, 1968, in the humble village of Sumaila in Kano State, Suleiman Abdurrahman—widely known as Kawu Sumaila—was destined for leadership. From an early age, he showed a keen interest in governance and public service, a passion that would later define his career.

Growing up in Sumaila Village, young Kawu attended Sumaila Gabas Primary School, where he earned his First School Leaving Certificate in 1976. His pursuit of education led him to Senior Secondary School in Sumaila, from where he graduated in 1988. But Kawu was not one to settle. He continued his studies at Bayero University, Kano (BUK), obtaining a Diploma and an Advanced Diploma in Educational Management. His thirst for knowledge saw him further his education at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), earning a Bachelor of Arts in Islamic Studies.

Driven by an insatiable desire for learning and leadership, Kawu enrolled at the Nigerian Defence Academy, where he obtained a Master’s degree in Leadership Studies. He later returned to BUK for another Master’s degree, this time in Developmental Studies. His academic journey didn’t stop there—he secured a Master’s degree in Political Science from Maryam Abacha University, Niger Republic, and ultimately earned a PhD in Political Science from Al-Qalam University, Katsina.

Kawu Sumaila’s exposure extended beyond Nigeria’s borders. He attended short courses at world-renowned institutions, including Harvard University in the United States, Oxford University in the United Kingdom, and Cambridge University. These experiences broadened his perspective, preparing him for the demanding world of politics.

A Life in Politics: The Rise of Kawu Sumaila

Kawu Sumaila’s foray into politics began in 1991 when he joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP). He later became a member of the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM), a party that eventually merged with other political groups to form the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Kawu was no ordinary member; he quickly rose through the ranks, serving as the Deputy State Organizing Secretary and contesting for a seat in the Kano State House of Assembly in the mid-90s.

During General Sani Abacha’s transition program, he was a member of the United Nigeria Congress Party (UNCP), further strengthening his political roots. However, it was in 2003 that Kawu took a bold step, leaving the PDP for the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP). Running under the ANPP, he contested and won a seat in the House of Representatives, representing Sumaila/Takai Federal Constituency. This marked the beginning of an illustrious legislative career.

In the National Assembly, Kawu served in various key committees, including Water Resources, Interior, Information, Poverty Alleviation, and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). His performance and leadership skills earned him a re-election in 2007, and he was appointed Deputy Minority Leader, a position he retained after his third consecutive victory in 2011.

A Legislator with Impact

Throughout his years in the House of Representatives, Kawu Sumaila left an indelible mark through numerous bills and motions. His contributions reshaped governance in Nigeria, particularly his involvement in the amendment of Section 145 of the Constitution, which ensured the smooth transfer of power to the Vice President or Deputy Governor when necessary. He was also instrumental in advocating for financial autonomy for state assemblies and addressing critical issues such as extrajudicial killings, poor infrastructure, and budgetary mismanagement.

His influence extended beyond legislation. Between 2007 and 2015, he served on the Constitutional Amendment Committee and was a member of the Governing Council of the National Institute of Legislative Studies (NILS), playing a key role in shaping Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

A Trusted Adviser to the Presidency

Recognizing his experience and dedication, President Muhammadu Buhari appointed Kawu Sumaila as his Senior Special Assistant on National Assembly House of Representatives Matters in August 2016. In this role, he acted as a bridge between the executive and legislative arms of government, fostering cooperation on key national issues. However, his passion for direct representation saw him resign in 2019 to contest for the Sumaila/Takai Federal Constituency seat once again under the All Progressives Congress (APC).

A New Chapter: The Senate

Kawu Sumaila’s political journey took another leap in 2023 when he was elected as the Senator representing Kano South Senatorial District under the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP). Now serving in the 10th Nigerian National Assembly, he continues his mission of championing the needs of his constituents while contributing to national development.

A Legacy of Leadership

Beyond politics, Kawu Sumaila has remained committed to social development. He once served as a member of the Kano State Library Board, the Coordinator of the National Poverty Eradication Programme (NAPEP), and the Chairman of the Local Government Monitoring Committee for Sumaila LGA. His career has been defined by an unwavering dedication to improving the lives of Nigerians through effective policy-making and governance.

From a small village in Kano to the halls of the National Assembly, Kawu Sumaila’s story is one of resilience, determination, and an unyielding commitment to public service. His journey continues, and for the people of Kano South and Nigeria at large, he remains a symbol of steadfast leadership.

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