Abuja, Nigeria – Nasiru Gawuna, chairman of the Governing Board of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), has resigned from his position as he prepares to defect to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general elections. Reports indicate Gawuna has finalised arrangements with former Kano Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, who resigned from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) on March 29, 2026, signalling a major shift in the opposition landscape.
In a resignation letter dated March 27, 2026, Gawuna, who was the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in 2023, said his resignation takes immediate effect in line with President Bola Tinubu’s directive requiring political appointees to step down ahead of electoral activities.
“My resignation is in strict compliance with the President’s directive requiring all political appointees to step down in accordance with the provisions of the Electoral Act,” Gawuna wrote.
He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, describing his tenure as a privilege and a chance to contribute to the growth and development of the Federal Mortgage Bank and Nigeria as a whole. Gawuna also stated that he is placing his future “in the hands of Allah” as he seeks divine guidance on his next steps, assuring a smooth transition and commitment to handing over responsibilities according to established procedures.
Kwankwaso, who resigned from the NNPP on March 29, cited the need for a fresh political alignment as his reason for leaving the party. The 69-year-old former presidential candidate thanked the NNPP for the opportunity to serve but indicated that his next political move would be in coordination with like-minded leaders, including Gawuna.
The defections mark a significant realignment in Nigeria’s opposition politics, with the ADC emerging as a growing platform for politicians seeking to challenge the ruling APC in 2027.
