Bauchi 2027 Gubernatorial Race: Candidates Emerge

The 2027 gubernatorial race in Bauchi State has begun, with candidates emerging after party primaries. Air Marshall Saddique Baba Abubakar (rtd) has been declared the APC candidate, despite facing significant opposition from party members who criticized his inactivity since losing in 2019.

Abubakar served as the third democratically elected Governor of Bauchi State in 2015 but was defeated by the incumbent, Sen Bala Mohammed, in 2019 due to political disagreements. After not contesting in 2023, he expressed interest in returning for a second tenure.

His candidacy was supported by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Mohammed Ali Pate, and the APC national leadership under Prof Nentawe Yilwatda. Although his home base support is weak, he has been affirmed as the candidate on the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) 2027 elections portal.

Abubakar's strength lies in federal support, and he aims to appeal to the youth demographic.