Alhaji Bashir Sai'du, former Chief of Staff to ex-Governor Nasir El Rufai and a political ally, has declared his support for Governor Uba Sani's second term in office. Following his defection from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bashir pledged to deliver Zazzau emirate to the APC in the 2027 elections. This move is expected to demonstrate his political clout and commitment to the party. Bashir made this assurance when the Special Adviser on Domestic Affairs, Isa Lawal, visited him at his residence.
During the visit, Bashir expressed his full commitment to the APC, stating that he would prove to those who doubted his ability to defect with a large following that he had indeed brought thousands of supporters to the ruling party. As Commissioner of Finance during the last administration, Bashir predicted a different outcome in the Zaria local government during the upcoming election, vowing to exceed past records. He emphasized that the APC would receive more votes in Zaria than what the people gave President Buhari in previous elections.
Bashir revealed that about 3,091 like-minded individuals, who are card-carrying members of the ADC from Lere local government, are on their way to joining the APC. Additionally, he stated that there are approximately 4,000 such people in some local governments who are expected to join the party. Bashir expressed confidence in his ability to deliver the Zazzau emirate, stating that those who doubt his capacity would witness his strength in the 11 local governments.
The former Chief of Staff emphasized that his supporters are not just ordinary politicians but trustworthy individuals. He announced that he had already joined the APC with 10,000 of his supporters. Bashir pointed out that he is politically grounded not only in Zaria local government but also in Igabi and Kaduna South local governments. He expressed optimism that the APC would emerge victorious in the 2027 elections.
According to Bashir, his supporters believe in him politically, and they have been meeting to plan and fashion out modalities for winning elections. He stated that this move would not hinder the state government from planning independently. Bashir expressed willingness to collaborate with the state government, either by blending with them or planning concurrently and meeting at the polls.
Bashir's defection and pledge to deliver the Zazzau emirate to the APC are seen as significant developments in the lead-up to the 2027 elections. His commitment to the party and his confidence in his ability to deliver votes in the 11 local governments of the Zazzau emirate are expected to boost the APC's chances in the elections. The party is likely to benefit from Bashir's experience and influence in the region.
The development is also expected to have implications for Governor Uba Sani's second term in office. Bashir's support and commitment to delivering the Zazzau emirate to the APC are likely to enhance the governor's chances of securing a second term. The APC is expected to capitalize on Bashir's influence and experience to strengthen its position in the region and improve its chances of winning the 2027 elections.
Key points
- Alhaji Bashir Sai'du defects from ADC to APC, vowing to deliver Zazzau emirate to the party in 2027 elections.