From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
Elders of the All Progressives Congress in Southern Kaduna have officially formed the Southern Kaduna APC Elders Forum, expressing support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani in the 2027 elections.
The Forum was launched in Kafanchan on Friday with a press statement signed by Hon. Micah John Avong, Coordinator; Dr. Ishaya Habu Sarki, Secretary; Engr. Dr. Yusuf Iliya Mairiga, Patron; and Alhaji Abubakar Abdullahi Maikano, Trustee and former Aide-de-Camp to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari.
Addressing media representatives and party stakeholders, the elders explained the forum’s purpose, stating it was founded on the shared belief that harnessing the experience, wisdom, and networks of senior citizens is vital for fostering party unity, democratic stability, and sustainable development.
“The establishment of this Forum is borne out of a shared conviction among concerned elders and stakeholders that the experience, wisdom, networks, and goodwill of our senior citizens must be harnessed in the service of party unity, democratic stability, good governance and sustainable development,” the statement read.
The Forum reaffirmed its dedication to the APC and its principles of progressive governance, inclusion, fairness, and development. It emphasized that political leadership should lead to real improvements in infrastructure, security, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities.
In support of continuity, the Forum endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and Senator Uba Sani CON for second terms.
“We declare our commitment to work within the democratic structures of the APC towards the re-election of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, in the 2027 presidential election; the re-election of His Excellency, Senator Uba Sani CON, as Governor of Kaduna State; and the success of APC candidates in other elective positions,” the elders stated.
While acknowledging earlier political and developmental challenges in Southern Kaduna, they highlighted recent efforts by Governor Uba Sani that have promoted greater inclusion. These include improvements like school rehabilitation, road upgrades, and increased representation of Southern Kaduna natives in federal and state appointments.
They also listed federal projects under the Tinubu administration in partnership with Kaduna State, including: the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia; the Federal Medical Center, Kafanchan; the Military Command Center at Samaru Kataf; the Command Secondary School in Zangon Kataf; and the UBEC Junior Vocational Secondary School at Jagindi.
The elders welcomed the nomination of Comrade Jerry Adams as Deputy Governorship Candidate, describing it as “a significant gesture of inclusion and recognition of the capacity and contribution of the people of Southern Kaduna.”
“We believe that a government that reflects the diversity of its people is better positioned to promote mutual trust, justice, equity, and peaceful coexistence,” the statement said, adding that the current political direction offers an opportunity to strengthen ties between Christian and Muslim communities.
The Forum outlined its role as providing strategic advice to party leadership, promoting unity and reconciliation, mentoring younger leaders, strengthening grassroots participation, and advocating for Southern Kaduna’s interests both within the state and nationally. It also committed to fostering peaceful elections and discouraging hate speech and political violence.
Looking ahead to 2027, the elders emphasized that victory in elections relies on organization and community engagement.
“Our message to APC members is simple: we must close ranks, resolve our differences through dialogue and work together in the larger interest of the party and our people,” they said.
The Forum urged all APC leaders, women, youth, and supporters across Southern Kaduna to embrace reconciliation and shared responsibility.
“The inauguration of the Southern Kaduna APC Elders Forum is not simply the inauguration of another political association.
It is the beginning of a renewed commitment by our elders to contribute their experience, wisdom, and networks towards building a stronger APC and a more peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous Southern Kaduna,” the statement concluded.
The elders expressed their belief that continuity, combined with accountability and people-focused governance, can secure further development gains for the community.
“Southern Kaduna deserves a stronger voice. The APC deserves a united and committed family. Our people deserve responsible and people-oriented governance,” they declared.
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