Ibrahim Garba Shuaibu, spokesperson for the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, governorship candidate in Kano State, Aminu Gwarzo, says the controversy over the removal and subsequent restoration of his principal’s name from the Independent National Electoral Commission’s list has increased the party’s popularity.

Shuaibu made this known on Friday while reacting to INEC’s decision to restore Gwarzo’s name ahead of the 2027 governorship election.

He said the party was never worried about the initial omission because it was confident that it had followed all the necessary electoral procedures.

According to him, the development was only a temporary challenge that the party expected would be resolved.

“We were not frightened because we followed all the laid-down procedures from party membership to the nomination process and submission of our candidate’s details,” he said.

Shuaibu further claimed that the controversy had attracted public sympathy and encouraged more people to support the party.

“What the electoral commission intended as a setback has actually worked in our favour. It has increased our supporters, strengthened our popularity and made more people identify with us,” he said.

He added that the NDC would continue its campaign and grassroots mobilisation across Kano State while promoting its plans and policies to voters.

The spokesperson expressed confidence that the development would improve the party’s chances in the 2027 governorship election.

INEC restored Gwarzo’s name following public controversy over its earlier omission from the list of candidates for the forthcoming election.