Four heavyweights in Bauchi APC battle as Pate’s silence reshapes race

A highly competitive and defining political battle is shaping up in Bauchi State ahead of the 2027 elections as the contenders in the All Progressives Congress are narrowed to four following the non-resignation of Health Minister, Ali Pate, writes UMAR SANI

As preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum, the race for the All Progressives Congress governorship ticket in Bauchi State is shaping into a high-stakes contest among four prominent political figures, each bringing distinct experience and influence to the table. What initially appeared to be a crowded field has now narrowed into a four-man race, as the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, has yet to resign in compliance with President Bola Tinubu’s directive, which elapsed on March 31.

Pate has long been speculated to be weighing a governorship bid, but has maintained silence, though support groups continue to mount pressure on him to join the race. Commenting on Pate’s non-resignation, the Chairman of the Pate Media Centre, Dass, Ibrahim Abdulhamid, explained that it appeared that his services are still needed at the national level.

“Despite calls by Bauchi residents, it is clear that he is valued for his commendable service beyond the state. While people of Bauchi are calling for his resignation, others across the nation are pleading that he continue as minister. That is why he refused to resign.”

Abdulhamid assured that Pate would, in the future, render his services to the people of Bauchi.

In contrast, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, resigned on March 31, signalling a clear intention to pursue the governorship ambition. Party stakeholders and observers in Bauchi believe Pate’s non-resignation to date has narrowed attention to the remaining contenders.

As a result, those expected to battle for the APC ticket are former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar; a former Chief Upstream Investment Officer of NNPCL Upstream Investment Services, Bala Wunti; the senator representing Bauchi South, Shehu Buba; and former Bauchi State Governor, Muhammad Abubakar. The party has scheduled its governorship primary for May 21, setting the stage for what is anticipated to be a defining political contest in the state.

At his formal declaration held at the Games Village in Bauchi, Tuggar sought to sell his candidacy, mentioning his emphasis on governance driven by results rather than rhetoric. He framed his ambition around repositioning Bauchi as a leading hub in agriculture, solid minerals, and investment, stressing the need to move beyond what he described as a long-standing narrative of “untapped potential.”

Drawing from his background in business and public service, Tuggar projected himself as a bridge between local economic realities and global investment opportunities, particularly in emerging sectors such as rare earth minerals and lithium. He also appealed to grassroots voters, mentioning his upbringing, familiarity with rural life, and understanding of farmers’ challenges.

According to him, unlocking Bauchi’s agricultural capacity would require deliberate policies focused on productivity, access to markets, and support for rural communities. He described himself as a consistent actor in the political space. Specifically, Tuggar stated that he has remained ideologically grounded within the APC and is not prone to shifting allegiances. He further aligned his vision with the economic agenda of the Tinubu administration, advocating for policies that promote growth, productivity, and social development at the state level.

“I am stepping forward not for power, but for service; not for privilege, but for progress,” he said. Tuggar outlined key priorities, including workers’ welfare, security, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment. He pledged prompt payment of salaries, improved security through intelligence-led strategies and community policing, as well as targeted interventions to address unemployment, drug abuse, and poverty.

On education, he promised to reduce the number of out-of-school children, expand vocational training, and promote digital innovation. He also committed to improving access to affordable healthcare, particularly for women and children, while strengthening social protection mechanisms.

Beyond policy proposals, Tuggar emphasised governance anchored on transparency, accountability, and the rule of law, alongside collaboration with traditional and religious leaders to foster unity across the state.

Having previously served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Germany between 2017 and 2023 and as a member of the House of Representatives from 2007 to 2011, Tuggar brings both diplomatic and legislative experience to the race. He has also contested the Bauchi governorship twice in the past.

Another contender, Shehu Buba, said his decision followed extensive consultations and growing calls from across Bauchi State.

“After deep reflection, wide consultations, and overwhelming calls from the people, I stand before you with humility and gratitude to Almighty Allah to formally declare my intention to contest for the office of Governor of Bauchi State in 2027,” he said. He described the ambition as the beginning of a new journey toward a more prosperous, secure, and united Bauchi State, anchored on the platform of the APC.

“This journey is about inclusive growth, equitable development, transparent governance, peaceful coexistence, youth empowerment, technology-driven education, and, above all, the security and welfare of our people,” he added.

Buba reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC, describing it as the most viable platform to achieve his vision, and noted that the party has grown stronger despite being in opposition in the state. He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his leadership at the national level, which he said continues to strengthen the APC across the country.

Also, former NNPCL officer Bala Wunti stressed the need for urgent reforms in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, urging residents to begin collective efforts towards transforming the state.

Wunti, while addressing supporters, said he believes that meaningful development requires immediate action and deliberate planning. “I walk across the streets on my own feet. It is about our people, and while the time may seem like tomorrow, it starts today,” he said.

He urged citizens to reflect on the kind of society they desire, posing questions about the future of the country, state, local governments, and communities. According to him, many residents are currently living in informal conditions, while a significant number of children who should be in school remain on the streets.

“About 67 per cent of children who are supposed to be in school are not there. Education is what made me who I am today, and if these children are not educated, we will regret it,” he added.

The aspirant emphasised that Bauchi’s challenges were not insurmountable, insisting that change is possible if there is commitment and preparedness among stakeholders. He also described the state of healthcare as inadequate, noting that leaders must clearly articulate their vision and plans when seeking public office.

Drawing comparisons with Qatar, Wunti said the Gulf nation has transformed significantly within a few decades despite its limited natural resources.

He noted that while Qatar gained independence in 1971, Bauchi State was created in 1976, yet the two have experienced vastly different development trajectories. “In terms of land size, Bauchi is about four times larger than Qatar, but today Qatar’s GDP per capita is about $87,000, compared to roughly $1,000 here,” he said.

Wunti attributed Qatar’s progress to massive investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, aviation, and energy, urging Bauchi to adopt similar strategies.

“We have solid minerals and vast farmland, yet we have not maximised these opportunities. If we agree today to take action, we can achieve meaningful progress,” he said. He further stressed that leadership and success are not accidental but require intentionality and focus.

“We will be deliberate in executing projects and maintain a positive and consistent approach,” he added.

Reflecting on the past, Wunti noted that Nigeria’s education system was once more accessible, with fewer burdens on parents and better outcomes for students. “Our leaders then rose to the task, and we benefited from their sacrifices. That is what made us who we are today,” he said.

He challenged residents to consider the legacy they would leave for future generations, acknowledging that while the task ahead may be difficult, it is achievable with the right vision and determination. “What we need is vision and the commitment to pursue it. I believe that together, we can make it happen,” Wunti said.

On his part, the former Governor Abubakar (SAN) has outlined a set of policy priorities he intends to implement if re-elected. Abubakar, who governed the state between 2015 and 2019, made his plans known through his Special Assistant, Buhari Doya, who highlighted key areas of focus aimed at improving the socio-economic development of the state.

According to Doya, the former governor would prioritise quality education by constructing and renovating schools across all local government areas, as well as training and retraining teachers to enhance learning standards.

“He will also ensure the provision of learning materials and extend support to underprivileged students to bridge the education gap,” he said.

Doya disclosed that Abubakar plans to construct and equip modern health facilities, improve access to affordable medicines, and give special attention to maternal and child healthcare, particularly in rural communities.

Speaking on employment, he noted that the administration would focus on job creation through support for small and medium-sized enterprises.

“We intend to provide funding and training for youth entrepreneurship while boosting agricultural activities to create more employment opportunities,” Doya stated.

He further explained that agriculture and rural development would receive significant attention, with plans to supply farmers with fertilisers and improved seeds, alongside the development of rural roads to facilitate the transportation of farm produce.

“In addition, modern farming techniques will be introduced, and farmers will receive the necessary training to improve productivity,” he added.

Doya maintained that the former governor would strengthen collaboration with security agencies and promote community-based initiatives to ensure peace and stability.

He also stressed the importance of youth engagement as a strategy to curb crime and social unrest. Addressing governance, Doya said Abubakar is committed to transparency and accountability. “He will fight corruption, promote open and inclusive governance, and improve public financial management,” he said.

He added that the welfare of civil servants and retirees would be prioritised through prompt payment of salaries and settlement of pension benefits. He explained that the administration would explore the state’s mineral resources through partnerships with private investors.

“We will ensure the utilisation of available mineral deposits by collaborating with private sector players and investing in the sector,” he said.

Doya also noted that youth inclusiveness would form a core part of the administration’s agenda. “A larger portion of government appointments will be reserved for youths across Bauchi State to ensure inclusivity and participation in governance,” he added.

There are also other less prominent candidates within the party, such as Nura Soro, a former commissioner in Bauchi State