Bauchi 2027: Buba Reaffirms Guber Bid, Backs Tinubu, Calls for Level Playing Field in APC

From Paul Orude, Bauchi

Ahead of the primaries to select a flag bearer, the Senator representing Bauchi South Senatorial District, Senator Shehu Buba Umar, has reaffirmed his intention to contest the Bauchi State governorship seat on the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general election.

Other APC heavyweights interested in the governorship race include businessman Bala Wunti; former governor of the state, Mohammed Abubakar; Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate; and former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, among others, in what analysts describe as a keen contest.

Addressing stakeholders at Yimir Hotel in Bauchi on Monday evening,, Senator Buba assured his supporters of his readiness to contest and win the party’s primary election. 

Senator Buba He reiterated that he remains firmly in the race and is committed to providing effective leadership for the people of Bauchi State.

He expressed confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC to ensure a level playing field for all aspirants within the party.

Senator Buba called for strict adherence to democratic principles, urging the APC leadership to conduct free, fair, and transparent primaries. He emphasized that party stakeholders should be allowed to choose candidates based on merit and capacity in line with party rules.

He appealed to party members and supporters to remain calm amid ongoing speculations, assuring them of his continued commitment to the race. He also noted that all major stakeholders and gubernatorial aspirants within the party remain united.

The Special Adviser on Media to the Senator, Comrade Sabo Mohammed, said the meeting with stakeholders was to congratulate the newly elected state executives and promote unity within the party. 

He added that Senator Buba has been widely called upon by the people of the state to contest due to his exemplary leadership qualities.

Several speakers at the meeting emphasized the issue of consensus candidacy, noting that any such arrangement must emerge through broad consultations involving all aspirants.

Stakeholders pledged to respect the outcome of the party primaries, provided they are conducted in accordance with due process and the party’s constitution, while reaffirming their loyalty to the APC.

They noted that Senator Buba’s ambition is driven by a desire to deliver people-oriented leadership to Bauchi State.

Meanwhile, Senator Buba also held a special meeting with the Shura Council of the Bauchi State Muslim community, where he pledged support for efforts to educate citizens on the importance of obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

The meeting with the Ulama Council was held at Sulgad Hotel and was attended by prominent Islamic scholars and Imams of Juma’at mosques, including the Chief Imam of Bauchi Central Mosque, Imam Bala Ahmad Baban Inna; Dr. Bashir Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi; Imam Dr. Fatihi Sheikh Dahiru; Dr. Ibrahim Disina; Sheikh Shu’aibu Sambo Luti; Sheikh Muhammad Rabi’u Jordan; and other clerics from various Islamic sects and Muslim associations in the state.

The Chairman of the Shura Council, Sheikh Yusuf Abdullahi Jahun, commended the clerics for attending the meeting and praised Senator Buba for executing projects that have had a direct impact on the lives of the people, praying for Allah’s continued blessings upon him.

Sheikh Jahun also lauded Senator Buba’s representation of Bauchi South, citing his charitable activities and support for communities across the state.

The Shura Council, comprising scholars and imams from various Islamic sects -including Darika, Izala, and Shia–highlighted the importance of good leadership and community service in their presentations.

They commended the Senator for his contributions, including the construction of mosques and Islamic schools, empowerment initiatives, support for the less privileged, and the provision of scholarships and tuition assistance to students.

The scholars prayed for Allah to grant him good health and continued success in his service to the community.

In his remarks, Senator Buba said the meeting was also to thank Almighty Allah for the successful completion of Ramadan and the Eid el-Fitr celebrations.

He expressed appreciation to the organization for its continued support and urged them to encourage their followers to obtain their PVCs ahead of the 2027 elections.

He pledged continued support for mobilizing citizens to exercise their civic responsibilities and emphasized the importance of engaging religious leaders, whom he described as guiding lights of society.

Senator Buba also donated ₦10 million to support the activities of the organization’s committee.