By: Monday Danladi, Bauchi
A political pressure group known as ‘Shehu Buba Umar Vanguard for Governor 2027’ (SBU-Vanguard) has reaffirmed its commitment to mobilise support for the gubernatorial aspirations of the Senator representing Bauchi South Senatorial District, Shehu Buba Umar in 2027 under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking at a press conference held in Azare, headquarters of Katagum Local Government area of the State on Tuesday, the Director-General of SBU-Vanguard, Engr. Ishaq S. Dabo, urged the APC leadership at both the national and state levels to ensure a free, fair, and credible primary election, allowing all aspirants equal opportunities to contest.
Hon. Ishaq Dabo emphasised that imposing candidates would weaken the party, whereas respecting the people’s choice would strengthen democracy.
“When party leadership listens to the voice of the people and upholds fairness, it fosters unity and trust within the party. We believe Senator Shehu Buba Umar is the right candidate to lead Bauchi State to greater heights,” he said.
Hon. Dabo emphasised that the vanguard is a coalition of passionate supporters dedicated to advocating for Senator Shehu Buba Umar’s candidacy across all 20 local government areas of Bauchi State.
He expressed gratitude to the people of the central and northern zones of Bauchi for their overwhelming support and endorsement of the senator’s leadership qualities.
“As the only elected APC Senator from Bauchi State, Senator Shehu Buba Umar has demonstrated integrity, inclusiveness, and dedication to leadership. His generosity and commitment to the welfare of the people, particularly during challenging times like the recent floods, have earned him widespread appreciation,” Dabo stated.
The SBU-Vanguard commended Senator Umar for his unwavering dedication to the APC and his efforts to strengthen the party and recalled how the senator provided financial support to the party and sponsored APC candidates in the 2024 local government elections, reinforcing his commitment to party unity and democratic values.
“Senator Shehu Buba Umar has remained steadfast in safeguarding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s mandate in Bauchi State. He has been instrumental in promoting the president’s vision and ensuring that the APC remains strong at both the state and national levels,” he added.
Dabo added that Buba a member representing Bauchi South Senatorial district who is Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, has made significant contributions, including sponsoring a bill for the establishment of the National Orthopaedic Hospital in Toro, Bauchi State, sponsoring a cybercrime legislation bill to enhance national security.
He further said senator Buba also advocate for the establishment of a Customs Training College in Bauchi, facilitating the construction of key roads, including the Alkaleri-Mansur Road and several township roads as well as Rmrenovating and constructing hospitals and primary schools across Bauchi South Senatorial District.
“Shehu Buba has empowered farmers with modern equipment, training, and startup capital, paying scholarships for hundreds of students in Nigeria and abroad and covering hospital bills worth millions of Naira for indigent patients.
“Providing business capital for youth entrepreneurs and securing federal government jobs for young people in Bauchi, supporting flood victims and vulnerable groups with relief materials and aid, advocating for better healthcare, education, and infrastructure in rural communities and promoting women empowerment programs and skills acquisition initiatives.”
Dabo also said Shehu Buba distributed rice palliatives across Bauchi State to support struggling families.
The SBU-Vanguard reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to Senator Umar’s gubernatorial ambition, pledging to work tirelessly until he is sworn in as governor in 2027.
Hon. Dabo assured supporters that their sacrifices and efforts would not go unnoticed, emphasizing that the movement extends beyond winning an election—it is about ensuring sustainable progress and good governance in Bauchi State.
“We invite all sons and daughters of Bauchi State to join us in this movement for positive change and development. Together, we can build a better future for our state,” he concluded.