By Mustapha Muhammad
Politics is often judged by the quality of leadership it produces. While appointments sometimes generate controversy and uncertainty, others quickly earn public acceptance because the choice reflects competence, experience, and the confidence of those entrusted with making such decisions. The appointment of Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo as Deputy Governor of Kano State belongs to the latter category.
On April 27, 2026, following his confirmation by the Kano State House of Assembly, Garo assumed office as Deputy Governor, becoming the second-highest-ranking public official in Nigeria’s most populous state. His appointment was not merely another political development; it marked the elevation of a politician whose public service and grassroots appeal have been tested over the years.
Having previously served as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Garo built a reputation as a leader who understands governance from the grassroots upward. His political strength has always rested on his ability to engage people, build consensus, and inspire confidence among diverse constituencies. Those qualities have remained evident in his new office.
In the few months since assuming office, Garo has represented Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf at numerous official engagements within and outside Kano State. Whether attending diplomatic meetings, regional governors’ engagements, or other state functions, he has carried out these responsibilities with composure, discipline, and a clear understanding of the administration’s priorities. Such assignments require not only administrative competence but also the confidence of the Governor, whose vision and policies the Deputy Governor represents.
Perhaps the clearest indication of that confidence came during the Arewa Media Summit, organised by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Publicity and Enlightenment, Malam Abdulaziz Abdulaziz. Speaking at the event, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf publicly described his deputy as committed, loyal, and hardworking. Coming from the state’s Chief Executive, such a commendation carries considerable political significance.
That confidence has since been reinforced by the Governor’s decision to publicly announce Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo as his running mate for the 2027 gubernatorial election. In politics, such declarations are rarely made lightly. They reflect trust, satisfaction with performance, and a desire for continuity within an administration.
The Governor’s words leave no room for ambiguity:
“I have no regret in choosing Garo as my Deputy. He has proven to be the right choice so far. I have every confidence in him.”
Beyond the commendations, however, leadership is ultimately measured by performance. Public office demands humility, loyalty, diligence, and the ability to complement the principal without seeking unnecessary attention. By these standards, Garo has so far demonstrated the qualities expected of a dependable deputy. He has approached the office with calmness, maturity, and an evident commitment to advancing the policies of the administration.
While history will ultimately judge every public official by the lasting impact of their service, the early signs are encouraging. Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo has demonstrated that experience, loyalty, and effective leadership remain indispensable qualities in public office.
For many who have followed his political journey, his emergence as Deputy Governor is neither surprising nor accidental. Rather, it is the culmination of years of public service and political commitment. Time will continue to test every leader, but the evidence available today suggests that Kano State has found in Murtala Sule Garo a deputy well suited to the responsibilities of his office. He is a rare gem in the game of politics today.
Indeed, the right man who fits the cap has arrived.
Mustapha Muhammad is the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, and writes from Kano.