From Femi Oyelola in Kaduna
Constituents of Kaduna South Federal Constituency have begun rallying support for Hon. Emmanuel Tabat Khoza to contest for the House of Representatives in the 2027 elections, citing his proven service record and grassroots connections as vital to providing better representation.
The movement, which has gained momentum across wards in Kaduna South’s Kakuri, Makera, Barnawa, and Television, all in Kaduna South local government areas that make up the constituency, centers on residents’ views of Khoza’s accessibility, competence, and inclusive leadership style.
Mallam Ibrahim Musa, a community leader in Makera, said Khoza’s ongoing engagement with constituents sets him apart. “He does not wait for election season to visit us. Even without holding a federal seat, he attends our town hall meetings, listens to our challenges, and follows up,” Musa said.
Mrs. Grace Jacob, a women’s leader, characterized Khoza as a bridge-builder across ethnic and religious lines. She noted that his involvement in women empowerment programs has benefited both Christian and Muslim groups without discrimination, aligning with Governor Uba Sani’s agenda of unity and inclusion.
Youth in the constituency also highlight Khoza’s support for skills development and education. Mr. Samuel Amos, coordinator of a youth group in Kakuri, said Khoza sponsored ICT training for many young people in 2025 and facilitated scholarships for underprivileged students. “He believes in building capacity, not just giving handouts,” Bako said.
Residents assert that Khoza’s background in public administration and community development gives him an edge in legislative work. He previously served in a key role as both a civil servant and a businessman, during which time he was credited with promoting transparency in project implementation and community budgeting.
In Barnawa, farmer associations recall his role in connecting local cooperatives to state agricultural support programs. Alhaji Mohamed Garba, chairman of a maize farmers’ cooperative, said Khoza helped them access improved seedlings and extension services last farming season. “He understands that representation is about bringing government closer to the people,” Garba said.
Constituents also emphasize his record in crisis management. During periods of tension in parts of Kaduna South, Khoza was among the leaders who organized peace dialogues between youth groups and traditional rulers, helping to de-escalate conflicts in line with the Kaduna Peace Model promoted by Governor Uba Sani.
Mrs. Hauwa Idris, a trader in Television, said Khoza’s wife and family are actively involved in community health initiatives, organizing free medical checks for women and children. “Leadership runs in his home. He leads by example,” she said.
Political stakeholders contend that Khoza represents a generational shift combining experience with fresh energy. An APC leader in Kakuri said the constituency needs a legislator who can lobby for federal projects while maintaining strong ties with the state government to ensure their implementation.
Supporters believe Khoza’s legislative focus will be on infrastructure, youth employment, and security. He is committed to advocating for the rehabilitation of key rural roads in Kaduna South Local Government to ease the movement of farm products and improve access to schools and health centers.
He is also said to have pledged to sponsor bills that enhance community policing and intelligence sharing, building on the state’s current security framework. “He wants to take the Kaduna Peace Model to the national stage,” said Mrs. Rebecca Yohanna, a teacher in Barnawa.
On inclusion, residents highlight his plan to establish a Constituency Advisory Council made up of women, youths, persons with disabilities, and faith leaders. The council, they say, will meet quarterly to set the agenda and review performance, ensuring no group is left behind.
Mr. Abdulrahman Sani, a trader in Television Village, said Khoza’s humility makes him approachable. “You can call him, and he will pick up, or he will return the call. That is the kind of person we want in Abuja to speak for us,” he said.
Analysts note that Kaduna South Federal Constituency has long demanded more federal presence, especially in water supply, electricity, and job creation. Supporters believe Khoza’s network across government and development partners positions him to attract interventions to the area.
Mrs. Comfort Adamu, a retired civil servant, said Khoza’s emphasis on data-driven representation appeals to her. “He talks about mapping needs in every ward so that projects go where they are needed most. That is accountability,” she said.
Youth groups say they are ready to mobilize across party lines in his support because of his non-divisive style. “We are tired of the politics of abuse. Khoza speaks to issues and respects people,” said Mr. Emmanuel Danjuma, a student leader in Television Village.
Community leaders also highlight his record of promoting religious harmony. During Christian and Muslim festivals, Khoza is known to visit leaders of both faiths and support joint community projects, a practice they say mirrors Governor Uba Sani’s inclusive governance.
With 2027 approaching, the constituents say they are not just asking Khoza to run but to lead a new era of representation where feedback is ongoing, the people drive projects, and the voice of Kaduna South is heard clearly at the National Assembly.
For many in the constituency, the message is clear: Hon. Emmanuel Tabat Khoza embodies the competence, character, and compassion needed to align federal representation with the Uba Sani agenda of peace, inclusion, and development.
