2027: El-Rufai, Ashiru’s bid to unseat Kaduna governor will fail – Shehu Sani

Former senator and civil rights activist, Shehu Sani, has dismissed any political alliance involving former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, Senator Suleiman Abdu Kwari Ashiru and opposition parties aimed at unseating Governor Uba Sani in the 2027 governorship election, describing such efforts as doomed to fail.

Sani, who represented Kaduna Central in the 8th National Assembly, said opposition parties in the state lack the grassroots presence and popular support required to challenge the incumbent governor at the polls.

Speaking at a press conference in Kaduna, the former lawmaker expressed confidence that Governor Uba Sani would secure a second term, citing what he described as notable achievements in governance, security, infrastructure and inclusive leadership.

According to him, opposition parties in Kaduna State “exist largely on paper” and have failed to establish meaningful connections with communities at the ward and grassroots levels.

“There is no political plot, whether by individuals or parties, that can override the will of the people of Kaduna State. The so-called alliance of ADC and PDP being linked to El-Rufai and Ashiru is dead on arrival because it lacks a solid grassroots foundation,” Sani said.

He noted that the current administration has delivered infrastructural projects across the three senatorial zones, reaching both urban and rural communities, which he described as unprecedented in the state’s political history.

Sani identified unity, security and development as the three defining pillars of Governor Uba Sani’s leadership, adding that the state is witnessing improved relations between religious groups and relative stability compared to other parts of the North-West.

“For the first time in a long while, Kaduna is experiencing genuine unity between Muslims and Christians. There is also relative security, which has created an enabling environment for development,” he said.

Highlighting key initiatives of the administration, Sani referenced the proposed $200 million poultry project, the Kaduna Light Rail scheme and multi-billion-naira skill acquisition programmes across the state. He said the skill acquisition centres are already empowering youths and women, reducing unemployment and tackling the root causes of insecurity.

The former senator also commended the government’s performance in health, education and human capital development, noting that these sectors have received renewed focus.

“Governor Uba Sani has made a measurable impact in healthcare delivery, education reform and human capital development. These are long-term investments in the future of Kaduna State,” he said.

Sani urged political actors in the state to prioritise constructive engagement and service delivery over what he described as “elite conspiracies and paper alliances,” stressing that electoral victories are determined by performance and popular support.

He maintained that Kaduna voters would reward tangible achievements rather than political propaganda as the 2027 election approaches.