As the 2023 general elections draw nearer, Deputy Governor Nasiru Gawuna of Kano has resigned from his appointment as the commissioner for agriculture and natural resources.

Mr Gawuna, in a statement by his aide, Hassan Fagge, on Monday, said his resignation was to “further his political career.”

“My decision to resign as commissioner for agriculture and natural resources is to further my political career,” he said. “I will continue to give contributions towards the development of the state as your loyal deputy in the mandate given to us by the Kano people.”

Mr Gawuna, however, did not state which elective position he would be running for in 2023.

Similarly, the commissioner for health Aminu Tsanyawa resigned his position. He seeks to contest the House of Representatives from the Kunchi/Tsanyawa constituency.

Also, Ali Makoda, chief of staff to the governor, Kabiru Lakwaya, the commissioner for youth and sports, and Muhammad Maikasuwa, special adviser to the governor on youth enlightenment, tendered their resignations to contest various positions.

Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, in an earlier statement by his media aide, had directed all political appointees seeking elective positions in the 2023 general elections to resign on or before April 18.

Mr Ganduje’s directive complied with section 84 (12) of the amended Electoral Act, which requires political appointees seeking elective positions to resign before participating in primaries.