Kano, Nigeria – September 16, 2025 – In a dramatic turn of events, Jadda Garko, a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State and a self-styled Renewed Hope ambassador, has accused the office of the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, of deliberately undermining his prospects for a federal appointment. Speaking at a press conference in Kano on Monday, Garko claimed that Gbajabiamila’s office falsely informed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that he was “dead and buried,” effectively stalling his political ambitions. The allegations have sparked widespread discussion in Nigeria’s political circles, raising questions about internal power struggles within the APC and the Tinubu administration.
Garko, a well-known singer and grassroots mobilizer in Kano, also used the platform to dispel rumors of his planned defection from the APC, emphasizing his unwavering loyalty to President Tinubu and the party’s policies. He framed his current predicament as part of a broader struggle against entrenched political forces, particularly those he believes are opposed to his advocacy for critical infrastructure projects in northern Nigeria, such as the rehabilitation of the Kaduna–Abuja expressway.
The Allegations: A Political Conspiracy?
At the heart of Garko’s grievances is the claim that his name, which had been submitted for consideration for a federal appointment, was deliberately suppressed by Gbajabiamila’s office. According to Garko, this act of sabotage was motivated by his perceived closeness to Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, a prominent member of the House of Representatives and a key figure in the Tinubu political machinery. Faleke, a long-time ally of the president, is known for his influence within the APC, particularly in Lagos and the broader southwest region.
“They told the president that I am already dead and buried,” Garko stated, his voice heavy with frustration. “But the time will come when, God willing, we will meet the president at a public gathering, and their bad envy will be exposed.” The statement, delivered with conviction, underscored Garko’s belief that his exclusion from federal appointments was not a mere oversight but a calculated move by certain elements within the president’s inner circle.
The accusation that Gbajabiamila’s office misrepresented Garko’s status to the president is a serious one, as it suggests a deliberate attempt to manipulate the appointment process. In Nigeria’s highly competitive political landscape, federal appointments are not only a reward for loyalty but also a means of consolidating power and influence. For Garko, a grassroots politician who has built a reputation as a vocal supporter of Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, the alleged sabotage represents a betrayal of trust.
The Kaduna–Abuja Expressway Controversy
Garko traced the roots of his political struggles to his public campaign for the rehabilitation of the Kaduna–Abuja expressway, a critical infrastructure project that has long been a source of concern for northern Nigerians. The expressway, which connects the federal capital to the northern region, has been plagued by poor maintenance, insecurity, and frequent accidents, making it a focal point for public discontent.
“Some have described my stance as fighting cabals because I advised the Minister of Works, David Umahi, to rehabilitate the Kaduna–Abuja expressway,” Garko said. “Every northerner who knows what is right ought to support that.” He argued that had the government acted on his recommendations nine months ago, significant progress could have been made, potentially saving lives and reducing the economic losses caused by the road’s deplorable condition.
Garko’s advocacy for the expressway’s rehabilitation has placed him at odds with some powerful figures within the government, whom he refers to as “cabals.” While he did not name specific individuals beyond Gbajabiamila’s office, his remarks suggest a broader tension between grassroots politicians and the entrenched political elite. The Kaduna–Abuja expressway has become a symbol of the government’s perceived neglect of northern infrastructure, and Garko’s vocal criticism may have ruffled feathers among those who prefer to maintain the status quo.
Interestingly, Garko pointed out that his call for the road’s rehabilitation was later echoed by Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, a prominent opposition leader and former governor of Kano State. Kwankwaso, a member of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), urged the Tinubu administration to prioritize the project, a move that Garko noted received a response from government officials, while his earlier pleas were ignored. “Then, as proof that God is not unjust, Kwankwaso himself, though in the opposition, urged the Tinubu administration on the same project. Yet our government officials responded to him while my earlier calls were ignored,” Garko lamented.
This discrepancy, according to Garko, highlights the selective attention given to certain voices within Nigeria’s political landscape. As a loyal APC member, he believes his contributions should carry more weight within the party, but the apparent dismissal of his advocacy has fueled his sense of marginalization.
Loyalty Amid Adversity
Despite the alleged sabotage, Garko was unequivocal in his continued support for President Tinubu. “We promoted Asiwaju with pure intentions. We have no regrets. Whether or not I have an appointment, I will continue to work as best I can,” he declared. The statement reflects Garko’s commitment to the APC’s Renewed Hope agenda, which emphasizes economic reform, infrastructure development, and social inclusion.
Garko’s loyalty to Tinubu is rooted in his role as a Renewed Hope ambassador, a position that involves mobilizing grassroots support for the president’s policies. As a singer and cultural influencer, Garko has leveraged his platform to promote the APC’s message in Kano, a state known for its complex political dynamics. Kano is a battleground for political supremacy, with the APC, NNPP, and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) vying for dominance. Garko’s prominence in the state makes his allegations of sabotage particularly significant, as they could impact the APC’s cohesion and public perception in the region.
A Warning to the APC
In addition to addressing his personal grievances, Garko issued a broader warning to the APC about unresolved issues in northern Nigeria. He suggested that if these issues are not addressed promptly, they could be exploited by opposition parties in the lead-up to future elections. “My gaze has always been forward. My vision fixed on what lies ahead,” he said, hinting at the potential electoral consequences of neglecting northern concerns.
While Garko did not specify the “unresolved issue” he referred to, analysts speculate that it could encompass a range of challenges, including insecurity, economic hardship, and infrastructure deficits. The northern region, which constitutes a significant portion of Nigeria’s population and voting bloc, has been grappling with issues such as banditry, kidnapping, and poverty. These challenges have fueled discontent among northern voters, and opposition parties like the NNPP and PDP are likely to capitalize on any perceived failures by the APC.
Garko’s warning underscores the delicate balance the Tinubu administration must strike to maintain its support base in the north. The region played a crucial role in Tinubu’s 2023 electoral victory, and any erosion of support could jeopardize the APC’s prospects in the 2027 elections. By raising this concern, Garko positions himself as a voice for the northern grassroots, advocating for proactive measures to address the region’s challenges.
Contextualizing the Allegations
To fully understand the significance of Garko’s allegations, it is necessary to examine the broader context of Nigerian politics. The APC, as Nigeria’s ruling party, is a coalition of diverse interests, ranging from regional power brokers to grassroots mobilizers like Garko. Internal rivalries and power struggles are not uncommon, particularly when it comes to the allocation of political appointments.
The office of the Chief of Staff, headed by Femi Gbajabiamila, plays a pivotal role in the Tinubu administration. As a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Gbajabiamila wields significant influence, serving as a gatekeeper for access to the president. His office is responsible for coordinating appointments, managing the president’s schedule, and overseeing key administrative functions. Allegations of sabotage from such a high-profile office raise questions about transparency and fairness within the administration.
Garko’s claim that his perceived closeness to James Faleke triggered the alleged sabotage adds another layer of complexity. Faleke, a key Tinubu ally, has been a polarizing figure within the APC, with some viewing him as a loyal lieutenant and others as a power-hungry politician. The dynamics between Faleke, Gbajabiamila, and other APC heavyweights could be influencing the distribution of political patronage, with figures like Garko caught in the crossfire.
The Role of Infrastructure in Nigerian Politics
The Kaduna–Abuja expressway, central to Garko’s advocacy, is more than just a road—it is a symbol of the government’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit. The expressway is a vital artery connecting the northern region to the federal capital, facilitating trade, travel, and economic activity. However, its poor condition has made it a flashpoint for public frustration, with frequent accidents and security incidents highlighting the urgency of rehabilitation.
Garko’s decision to champion this cause reflects the growing importance of infrastructure in Nigerian politics. Politicians who align themselves with popular demands for improved roads, electricity, and other public goods can gain significant grassroots support. However, such advocacy can also provoke resistance from those who benefit from the status quo or prioritize other projects.
The fact that Kwankwaso, an opposition leader, echoed Garko’s call for the expressway’s rehabilitation suggests a rare convergence of interests across party lines. Infrastructure challenges transcend political affiliations, and leaders who address these issues effectively can bolster their credibility. For Garko, the government’s failure to heed his earlier warnings represents a missed opportunity to demonstrate responsiveness to northern concerns.
Implications for the APC and Tinubu’s Administration
Garko’s allegations come at a critical time for the Tinubu administration, which is navigating a complex political and economic landscape. The government has faced criticism for its handling of issues such as fuel subsidy removal, currency devaluation, and rising inflation, all of which have disproportionately affected ordinary Nigerians. In this context, internal divisions within the APC could further erode public confidence in the party.
The accusation of sabotage by Gbajabiamila’s office, if substantiated, could fuel perceptions of favoritism and exclusion within the APC. Grassroots politicians like Garko, who played a key role in mobilizing support for Tinubu during the 2023 elections, may feel sidelined if their contributions are not rewarded with appointments or recognition. This could lead to disillusionment among party loyalists, particularly in the north, where the APC faces stiff competition from opposition parties.
Moreover, Garko’s warning about unresolved issues in the north highlights the broader challenge of maintaining regional balance in Nigeria’s federal system. The Tinubu administration, led by a president from the southwest, must demonstrate its commitment to addressing the needs of all regions, particularly the north, which has historically wielded significant political influence. Failure to do so could embolden opposition parties and weaken the APC’s electoral prospects.
Looking Ahead: Garko’s Political Future
Despite the challenges he faces, Garko remains defiant, vowing to continue his work as a Renewed Hope ambassador. His resilience in the face of alleged sabotage underscores his determination to remain a relevant voice within the APC. By framing his struggle as a battle against “cabals,” Garko positions himself as a champion of the common man, a narrative that could resonate with voters in Kano and beyond.
However, Garko’s allegations also carry risks. By publicly criticizing the Chief of Staff’s office, he may further alienate powerful figures within the APC, potentially limiting his future opportunities within the party. At the same time, his outspokenness could enhance his reputation as a fearless advocate for northern interests, potentially paving the way for a more prominent role in the future.
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, the Tinubu administration will need to address the concerns raised by figures like Garko to maintain its coalition of support. The Kaduna–Abuja expressway, internal party dynamics, and the broader issue of northern discontent will likely remain key points of contention. For now, Garko’s press conference serves as a reminder of the complexities of Nigerian politics, where loyalty, ambition, and regional interests intersect in unpredictable ways.
Conclusion
Jadda Garko’s allegations of sabotage by the office of the Chief of Staff have brought to light the intricate power dynamics within the APC and the Tinubu administration. His claims, coupled with his advocacy for the Kaduna–Abuja expressway and his warning about unresolved northern issues, highlight the challenges of governing a diverse and politically charged nation like Nigeria. While Garko remains steadfast in his loyalty to President Tinubu, his experience underscores the need for transparency, inclusivity, and responsiveness within the APC. As the party navigates the road to 2027, addressing these concerns will be critical to maintaining its dominance in Nigerian politics.
