Women group speak of imposition of candidates, gender inclusion in 2027 polls 

By: Ajiya Ayuba, Bauchi 

The Women Coalition for Sustainable Peace and Viable Democratic Gains in Bauchi State at the weekend speak of imposition of candidates and gender inclusion in the forthcoming general election.

They called for democratic fairness, responsible leadership, and respect for the will of the people in the state.

In an open letter signed by the leader of the group, Addaji Muhammad and made available to journalists in Bauchi, which the women committed to sustainable peace, democratic stability, inclusive governance, and the advancement of viable democratic gains for the people of Bauchi State and Nigeria at large.

According to the group, said that “Democracy thrives when the voices, aspirations, and genuine choices of the people are respected. 

“While political strategies and interests remain part of democratic practice, it is equally important that such strategies do not undermine the will, welfare, and confidence of the people”

The group further said that sustainable political victories are better achieved through justice, inclusiveness, fairness, and popular acceptance rather than imposition.

“Following extensive consultations, observations, and political viability studies conducted across various parts of Bauchi State, we have come to a difficult but sincere conclusion.

The people of Bauchi State desire meaningful change, credible leadership, and a government that reflects their realities and aspirations”

“The impact of democratic dividends in Bauchi State remains significantly inadequate, particularly in recent years. The suffering of ordinary citizens, especially women and youths, continues to increase amid rising expectations and limited opportunities. 

Many communities still struggle with unemployment, inadequate empowerment initiatives, weak social support systems, and insufficient developmental impact”

“In the course of our findings, one political figure consistently stood out in terms of grassroots acceptance, visible interventions, accessibility, and public confidence

“Across communities, many citizens acknowledged his efforts in supporting youths, empowering women, responding to community needs, and maintaining close engagement with the people. 

“We believe that the level of impact he has achieved as a Senator compares favorably not only with current office holders but also with many past political actors across the state”

“As a non-partisan coalition, our responsibility is not to promote political sentiment but to present realities as observed from the grassroots. Based on the outcome of our political viability assessment.

We strongly believe that Senator Shehu Buba Umar presently represents the most acceptable and promising option among the various aspirants across party lines for the future leadership direction of Bauchi State”

“We therefore respectfully appeal to the President, the national leadership of the APC, state party leaders, and all relevant stakeholders to allow the democratic process in Bauchi State to genuinely reflect the will and choice of the people. 

Bauchi State deserves an opportunity to experience leadership capable of restoring public confidence, strengthening peace, promoting continuity of people-oriented governance, and creating meaningful opportunities for women and youths”

“As women advocating for inclusive governance and sustainable democratic participation, we strongly recommend and advocate for the emergence of a competent and credible female deputy governorship candidate. 

“This will further strengthen gender inclusion, women participation in governance, and broader democratic representation in Bauchi State.

“We believe that peace, political stability, and long-term democratic success can only be sustained where the people feel heard, respected, and genuinely represented”

The Women group appeal is made in good faith, in the interest of peace, democratic continuity, and the collective future of the dear state.

“May God guide our leaders toward wisdom, justice, and decisions that will promote unity, progress, and sustainable development for Bauchi State and Nigeria as a whole”