By Israel Bulus, Kaduna
Political stakeholders in Kaduna Central Senatorial District, including executive chairmen, lawmakers, and party officials, have endorsed former Senator Shehu Sani as their preferred candidate for the 2027 senatorial primaries.
The announcement came on Tuesday at the Governor Uba Sani Campaign Office in Kaduna, where leaders cited Sani’s popularity, credibility, and legislative track record as grounds for their decision.
Consensus does not preclude primaries
Kaduna State Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Hon. Sadiq Mamman Lagos, said the endorsement followed extensive consultations across the district. He clarified, however, that the move does not rule out a competitive primary.
“Major stakeholders have agreed on a candidate based on credibility, proven record, and widespread acceptance. That does not mean others cannot contest,” he said.
He added that the party is prioritising electoral value: “We seek someone who can win. Currently, no other aspirant matches this level of acceptance.”
‘A candidate with national relevance’
Commissioner Lagos noted that Sani’s previous tenure in the Senate and continued national visibility make him the preferred choice. “He has served before, and his record speaks for itself. He remains one of the most popular political figures, not only in Kaduna Central but across the country.”
Local government chairmen and state lawmakers echoed this view, describing Sani as a committed democrat who was arrested during Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle and has consistently spoken truth to power.
The Chairman of Birnin Gwari Local Government commended Sani for drawing national attention to insecurity in the area during his time in office, particularly his support for vigilante groups, health facilities, and community infrastructure.
Sani: endorsement is a challenge, not a coronation
Responding, Senator Shehu Sani thanked the stakeholders and described the endorsement as both an honour and a responsibility.
“It does not prevent anyone from contesting. Any party member who wishes to run is free to do so. I welcome a competitive primary,” he said.
Sani, who served as senator from 2015 to 2019, expressed confidence in the electoral strength of Kaduna Central, which he described as the most populous senatorial district in the state. “Beyond personal ambition, we are committed to delivering strong votes for our party and for the President across Northern Nigeria.”
He pledged that, if elected, he would surpass his previous efforts in building hospitals, schools, and community infrastructure, adding: “With greater cooperation today, we can achieve even more.”
Call for continuity and fairness
Sani urged political actors to prioritise national unity and respect for established principles of balance and inclusion. “Leaders should be given the opportunity to complete their tenure so that equity and justice may be preserved. The choice before us is to support continuity and strengthen democracy for everyone.”
The event attracted party officials, supporters, and local government representatives from across Kaduna Central, signalling early political realignment ahead of the 2027 elections.
