Former MP wins primary for Kaduna PDP governorship

Former member of the House of Representatives representing Kaduna North Federal Constituency, Shehu Usman Bawa, has emerged as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Kaduna ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The primary elections, which took place on Monday 25 May 2026 in Kaduna, saw Usman defeat fellow aspirant, Haruna Kajuru, by a wide margin.

Announcing the result, polling chair Professor Ibrahim Lawal said Usman secured 124,170 votes to clinch the party ticket, while Kajuru secured 22,010 votes.

Calls for unity after victory

In his acceptance speech soon after the results were declared, Usman described his appearance as “a defining moment” in the political history of Kaduna State, pledging to unite party members and reposition the state if elected governor in 2027.

He thanked party leaders, stakeholders, women, youth, grassroots mobilizers and supporters of the 23 local government areas of the State for their faith in his candidature.

“This victory is not just for Honorable Usman Bawa ABG. It is a victory for every struggling family seeking hope, every unemployed youth seeking opportunity, every farmer praying for security, every trader yearning for economic stability and every citizen dreaming of a peaceful and prosperous Kaduna State,” he said.

The PDP flag bearer also extended an olive branch to his opponent and supporters, stressing that the contest is over and the party must now focus on winning the governorship election.

He said democracy thrives where there is healthy competition, adding that unity and sacrifice would be needed to ensure the victory of the PDP in the state.

Sound the alarm about insecurity

Usman lamented the security challenges facing Kaduna State, particularly banditry, kidnappings and attacks on communities, saying the situation had created fear among residents and adversely affected economic activities.

According to him, farmers are now afraid to cultivate their lands, while businesses close due to insecurity.

“This painful reality cannot continue,” he declared.

The PDP candidate promised that if elected governor, his administration will prioritize peace and security through collaboration with security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, vigilante groups and local communities.

He also pledged to strengthen community policing initiatives, improve intelligence gathering and provide logistical support to security agencies.

It promises economic rebirth, empowerment of young people

Speaking further, Usman promised to rebuild Kaduna’s economy by creating an enabling environment for business and investment to thrive.

He said his administration will focus on youth empowerment through entrepreneurship programs, job training, digital innovation and agricultural development.

“Our young people are energetic, talented and full of potential. They deserve jobs, quality education and opportunities to succeed,” he said.

The former parliamentarian also ensured greater inclusion and empowerment for women through improved access to healthcare, education and economic support programs.

He promises to revive education, healthcare and infrastructure

On education, the PDP candidate promised to revive the state’s education sector through renovating schools, recruiting qualified teachers and improving teaching facilities.

He also pledged to improve healthcare delivery by equipping hospitals and health centers to provide accessible and quality medical services.

Usman also assured residents that infrastructure development, including roads, water supply, electricity and rural development projects, will receive priority attention under his administration.

“Kaduna belongs to all of us”

The PDP governorship candidate pledged to lead an inclusive government anchored on equity, justice, accountability and transparency.

He assured citizens that no tribe, religion or region would be marginalized under his leadership.

“Kaduna belongs to all of us and every citizen must feel represented and protected,” he said.

Usman added that he will implement an open-door policy and remain accessible to the people if elected governor in 2027.

He expressed confidence that with unity, prayers and determination, the PDP will win back Kaduna State in the next election cycle.