Kano House of Assembly
The Kano State House of Assembly has constituted an ad hoc committee to screen Murtala Sule Garo following his nomination as deputy governor by Abba Kabir Yusuf.
The development comes after the Assembly formally confirmed receipt of a letter from Governor Yusuf requesting legislative consideration and approval of the nominee.
The letter was read during plenary on Wednesday by Jibrin Falgore, who subsequently announced the next steps in the confirmation process.
Vacancy in the Deputy Governor’s Office
Governor Yusuf nominated Garo following the resignation of former Deputy Governor Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo last month, which created a vacancy in the state’s second-highest executive office.
Under Nigeria’s constitutional framework, where the office of deputy governor becomes vacant, the governor is empowered to nominate a replacement subject to confirmation by the state House of Assembly.
The nomination was made pursuant to Section 191(3) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which authorizes a governor to appoint a new deputy governor whenever a vacancy arises.
This means Garo’s appointment can only take effect after the House completes its screening process and grants approval.
Governor Praises Nominee’s Credentials
In the communication to lawmakers, Governor Yusuf reportedly described the nominee as a person of good character with extensive experience in governance and public administration.
He also highlighted Garo’s political exposure, leadership capacity, and contributions to governance and development in Kano State through various public roles.
According to the governor, the nominee has demonstrated commitment to public service over the years and possesses the capacity required to support the administration’s agenda.
Garo and Gov Yusuf.
A statement issued earlier on Wednesday by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mustapha Muhammad, further described Garo as a seasoned political administrator with more than two decades of experience in both elective and appointed positions.
Assembly Constitutes Screening Committee
Following the reading of the governor’s request, Speaker Falgore announced the formation of an ad hoc committee to conduct the screening exercise.
The committee is chaired by the Deputy Speaker and includes several principal officers of the House as well as selected members representing different constituencies.
Among those named are:
- Majority Leader
- Chief Whip
- Deputy Majority Leader
- Majority Whip
- Members representing Fagge
- Sumaila
- Warawa
- Dawakin Kudu
- Tudun Wada
Other lawmakers are also expected to participate in the committee’s work.
The committee has been mandated to invite the nominee for formal screening and submit its findings and recommendations to the House on Monday.
What the Screening Process Means
The screening process is expected to examine Garo’s qualifications, public service record, leadership experience, and suitability for the office of deputy governor.
Lawmakers may also assess:
- His understanding of state governance
- Relationship with the executive arm
- Capacity to support policy implementation
- Administrative competence
- Integrity and public record
Once the committee submits its report, the full House is expected to deliberate and vote on whether to confirm the nomination.
If approved, Garo will be sworn in as deputy governor and assume constitutional responsibilities attached to the office.
Political Importance of the Nomination
The appointment of a deputy governor is politically significant because the office plays a central role in assisting the governor, representing the administration when required, and ensuring continuity of government.
The deputy governor may also oversee delegated policy responsibilities, mediate political relationships, and help coordinate governance across sectors.
In a politically influential state such as Kano State, the choice of deputy governor is often closely watched because of its implications for party balance, regional representation, and political stability.
Kano remains one of Nigeria’s most populous and politically strategic states, with considerable influence in northern politics and national elections.
Who Is Murtala Garo?
At 48 years old, Murtala Garo is described by government officials as an experienced political figure with a long record in public office.
Though the statement did not provide a full biography, it noted that he has served in both elected and appointed capacities over more than twenty years.
Supporters say that experience could position him to quickly adapt to the demands of the deputy governorship.
Next Steps
Attention will now turn to Monday’s expected report from the screening committee.
If the committee gives a favorable recommendation and the House votes to confirm him, the state government would move to fill the vacancy and restore the full executive structure.
For Governor Yusuf, the nomination is an important administrative step following the resignation of his former deputy.
For the Assembly, the process represents a constitutional responsibility to scrutinize executive nominations in the public interest.
For Kano residents, the outcome will help shape the next phase of governance in one of Nigeria’s most prominent states.
