2027: Ex-Zamfara Security Chief, Bakyasuwa, Declares for Reps Seat

By Babangida Abdullahi, Gusau

A retired military officer and security expert, Bello Muhammad Bakyasuwa, has declared his intention to contest the Bakura/Maradun Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives under the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in the 2027 general elections.

Bakyasuwa said his decision to join the race was motivated by the need to address insecurity, improve grassroots education and promote economic empowerment in Zamfara State.

He disclosed that he resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) over what he described as the party’s failure to address persistent security challenges in Zamfara State and Nigeria at large.

“My decision to enter the race for Bakura/Maradun Federal Constituency was driven by the need to contribute to national development, particularly in addressing insecurity and educational challenges at the grassroots,” he said.

The aspirant identified security as his top priority, promising to focus on peacebuilding, education and economic empowerment if elected.

He lamented that insecurity remained a major challenge in Zamfara and other states in northern Nigeria, with rural communities bearing the brunt of attacks by bandits and kidnappers.

According to him, the persistent attacks have worsened economic hardship, preventing farmers from accessing their farmlands and traders from conducting their businesses freely.

“Our farmers cannot go to farms, and our traders cannot go to markets because of the activities of bandits and kidnappers.

“This is very unfortunate when you compare the present situation in Zamfara with previous years,” he said.

Bakyasuwa expressed confidence that his experience in security management would enable him to contribute meaningfully to addressing the challenges confronting the constituency and the state.

He served as Director of Security Matters in the Zamfara State Government and was the immediate past commandant of the Zamfara State Anti-Thuggery Agency.

The retired military officer, who hails from Maradun Local Government Area, said he was particularly concerned about the impact of insecurity, poor access to education and economic hardship on rural communities.

He maintained that his background and experience had prepared him to contribute to finding lasting solutions to the challenges facing his people.

Bakyasuwa also urged voters in Zamfara State to prioritise competence over party affiliation in the 2027 general elections.

He advised residents to assess candidates based on their records, character, competence and ability to deliver, rather than the political parties under which they seek election.