By Mohammed Nasir Shuaibu (Bauchi State Correspondent)
The political landscape in Bauchi is beginning to take shape ahead of the 2027 general elections as former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, formally declared his intention to contest the governorship under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Tuggar’s declaration, delivered at Games Village on Saturday, is widely seen by political observers as a strategic move that could recalibrate the balance of power within the APC and reshape the contest for the state’s top seat.
Framing his ambition around unity and inclusive governance, the aspirant positioned himself as a bridge-builder, pledging to protect minority interests and expand political participation among women and marginalized groups key voting blocs in the state’s evolving political dynamics.
“Leadership must reflect fairness and inclusion. We must create opportunities for everyone, regardless of background,” he stated, signaling a campaign likely to target broad-based support across ethnic and social lines.
Beyond rhetoric, Tuggar outlined a governance agenda anchored on economic growth and social stability, themes analysts say are likely to dominate the 2027 campaigns as parties compete to address rising public expectations.
The event also doubled as a show of strength within party ranks. The National Chairman of the APC, Nentawe Yilwatda, represented by the party’s North-Central Zonal Vice Chairman, Ibrahim Sama’ila Ilali, commended Tuggar’s loyalty, a remark interpreted as a subtle endorsement of his standing within the party hierarchy.
Ilali’s call for aspirants to adhere strictly to party structures and guidelines underscores ongoing internal positioning within the APC as contenders jostle for influence ahead of primaries.
Further consolidating Tuggar’s political base, the Senator representing Bauchi North, Sama’ila Kaila Dahuwa, announced the backing of National Assembly members from across the state’s 20 local government areas—an indication of growing elite alignment behind the aspirant.
In a move described by allies as politically significant, Tuggar’s resignation from his ministerial role was highlighted as a calculated sacrifice aimed at boosting his credibility and focus on the governorship race.
The Director-General of the Tuggar Foundation, Uba Nana, said the declaration reflects widespread calls from stakeholders urging the former minister to join the race.
Party leaders at the event also used the platform to mobilize grassroots support, urging members to register and renew their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), a signal that early campaign structures are already being activated.
With Tuggar’s entry, analysts predict a more competitive APC primary and a potentially intense general election, as the party seeks to strengthen its chances in Bauchi’s shifting political terrain. NNL.
