Former Inspector-General of Police and Peoples Democratic Party senatorial candidate for Jigawa Southwest, Suleiman Abba, has formally commenced his campaign for the 2027 general elections, pledging to pursue a peaceful, lawful and issue-based contest.
Abba, who spoke at a press briefing in Dutse on Wednesday to unveil his vision, mission and manifesto, called on his supporters, political opponents and other stakeholders to respect the law and ensure that the electoral process was not disrupted by violence, intimidation or manipulation.
The former police chief, however, warned that any attempt to manipulate votes or use thugs to intimidate voters and his supporters would be resisted through lawful means.
“Following my background as a law enforcement officer for 31 years, rising from the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police to Inspector-General of Police, I assure you that we are going to see one of the most peaceful campaigns.
“We are going to do it according to the law. We are going to be fair and respectful,” he said.
Abba, who served as Chairman of the Planning Committee for Security during the 2015 general elections, said his experience had given him a deep understanding of the electoral process.
He warned against any attempt to undermine the votes of his supporters, insisting that his campaign would not engage in the use of thugs.
“Tell your thugs, we are not going to use thugs. If you are using thugs, tell them to distance themselves from me. I know how they are unlawfully used and the law will take its course,” he said.
According to him, the commencement of the campaign marked the beginning of his effort to seek the support and cooperation of the people of Jigawa Southwest, describing the election as an opportunity to build a better future for present and future generations.
He explained that his decision to begin the campaign with a press briefing was intended to give journalists and the public an opportunity to understand his vision and make informed choices ahead of the election.
The PDP candidate said his political ambition was guided by the fear of God, strengthened by his Islamic education and personal convictions.
He also said his academic background in history and law, coupled with his professional experience, would enhance his contribution to the Senate if elected.
“I have a degree in history, which is relevant to what I will meet at the National Assembly because knowing your people, your country, your neighbours and the global structure will help,” he said.
Abba added that his law degree and experience as a legal practitioner would enable him to contribute effectively to lawmaking and other legislative responsibilities.
He pledged to provide what he described as “qualitative representation” by supporting legislation and policies capable of promoting national development while protecting the culture, religion and interests of his constituents.
On his development agenda, the former IGP promised to prioritise youth employment, education, healthcare and agriculture if elected.
He said he would pursue the establishment of educational institutions, including secondary schools and higher institutions, while advocating improvements in existing educational facilities across the senatorial district.
On healthcare, Abba promised to work towards upgrading health facilities and improving access to quality healthcare for constituents.
He identified agriculture as the backbone of the local economy and pledged to support farmers through improved access to farmland, fertiliser, chemicals, tractors and other modern agricultural inputs.
He also promised to support the modernisation of livestock production and improve the welfare of pastoral communities.
Abba said his personal background had given him an understanding of the Fulani community and pledged to work towards improving the living conditions and opportunities available to pastoralists and their children.
He said his ultimate objective was to ensure that the people of Jigawa Southwest received effective representation and access to opportunities that would enable younger generations to achieve more than those before them.
The former police chief urged voters to focus on competence, integrity, experience and clear development plans rather than violence or political intimidation, stressing that his campaign would seek victory through the ballot box.
Ibrahim Shuaibu
Follow us on:
