23 Years of Persistence and Patience: Why Senator Sabo Nakudu’s ADC Governorship Ticket in Jigawa State Is No Surprise
By Mati Ali
The emergence of Senator Sabo Muhammad Nakudu, CON, as the gubernatorial candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Jigawa State has generated widespread political discussion across the state. However, to many political observers, his victory in the party’s primary election is not an unexpected development but rather the culmination of a political journey that began more than two decades ago.
A careful examination of Jigawa State’s political history reveals that Senator Nakudu’s governorship ambition predates that of virtually all current aspirants. Since 2003, he has consistently pursued his aspiration of becoming the Governor of Jigawa State, demonstrating remarkable resilience, commitment, patience, and political endurance. For 23 years, he has remained steadfast in this pursuit, navigating various political transitions while maintaining his relevance and influence across the state.
Over the years, Senator Nakudu has painstakingly built one of the most extensive political structures in Jigawa State. His support base spans all 27 Local Government Areas, with thousands of loyal supporters who have stood by him through different political seasons. This loyalty was once again demonstrated during his recent move to the ADC, where a significant number of supporters followed him into the party.
Historical records show that among those who sought the governorship of Jigawa State in the modern political era, the only individual whose ambition predated Senator Nakudu’s and who eventually became governor was former Governor Senator Ibrahim Saminu Turaki. During the 2003 governorship election, Turaki, then seeking a second term under the All People’s Party (APP), contested against Senator Sabo Nakudu, who flew the flag of the People’s Redemption Party (PRP).
Since that period, Senator Nakudu has remained one of the most experienced and longest-serving political figures associated with the governorship contest in Jigawa State. Many politicians who later contested for or occupied the office of governor entered the race years after he had already established himself as a formidable gubernatorial candidate.
Viewed against this backdrop, Senator Nakudu’s victory in the ADC gubernatorial primary election appears to be the natural outcome of years of political engagement, grassroots mobilization, and sustained public support. His entry into the ADC attracted a substantial influx of political stakeholders and supporters from across the state.
Among those who joined the ADC following Senator Nakudu’s defection were supporters of prominent political figures such as Malam Aminu Ibrahim Ringim, Senator Ubale Shittu, Alhaji Ahmed Isa Barayan Dutse, former Local Government Chairmen under the leadership of Hon. Bala Chamo, as well as several notable figures from the APC. The movement also included former Special Advisers and other influential political actors who resigned from their positions to align themselves with the ADC.
Political analysts have observed that Senator Nakudu’s victory in the ADC gubernatorial primary election was largely driven by the combined support base brought into the party by Senator Sabo Nakudu himself, His Excellency Ahmed Mahmoud Gumel, Malam Aminu Ibrahim Ringim, Senator Ubale Shittu, Alhaji Ahmed Isa Barayan Dutse, former Local Government Chairmen, and several other prominent political figures. Their collective influence and mobilization efforts significantly contributed to Senator Nakudu’s emergence as the party’s gubernatorial candidate.
The conduct of the primary election itself has also been widely commended. The exercise was carried out peacefully, transparently, and in accordance with democratic principles. At the conclusion of the process, Senator Sabo Nakudu secured 35,939 votes, while Hon. Bashir Adamu Jumbo garnered 19,533 votes. The outcome was seen by many party members as a clear reflection of the collective will of ADC members across the state.
Senator Nakudu’s emergence as the ADC governorship candidate therefore represents more than just a primary election victory. It marks a significant political milestone and reinforces his position as one of the most enduring political figures in Jigawa State’s democratic history. For many supporters, it also signals the beginning of a new chapter and a renewed push for political transformation in the state.
As preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum, party stakeholders and supporters are being encouraged to unite behind the ADC’s vision and work collectively towards achieving electoral success at all levels. The call for unity, inclusiveness, and shared purpose is expected to play a crucial role in determining the party’s fortunes in the years ahead.