NDC governorship aspirant Usman Idris has rejected the claim that Niger State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago has no serious challenger ahead of the 2027 elections.
Idris spoke in a statement titled “From No Challenger to Multiple Formidable Challengers: Lessons for Those Who Dare God,” following the emergence of Mohammed Nami, a former APC aspirant for the Niger South Senatorial District, as the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Idris said the development reflects a changing political landscape and argued that political establishments should not assume their dominance is permanent.
He said political strength is determined not only by the size of a political structure or available resources but also by public trust, credibility and connection with voters.
Idris also called for respect for political zoning and political agreements, arguing that perceived exclusion or manipulation of established arrangements could create resentment among stakeholders.
On governance, he said issues including development, employment, infrastructure and economic conditions could influence voters’ choices and create opportunities for alternative candidates.
The NDC aspirant further advised political establishments to examine the reasons behind the emergence of challengers, saying opposition could arise from perceived marginalisation, broken expectations and inadequate engagement with stakeholders.
He, however, said political challengers must demonstrate competence, organisation, vision and the capacity to unite voters to present a credible alternative.
Idris concluded that political power is ultimately entrusted by the electorate and that no political establishment should assume its position is guaranteed indefinitely.
Usman Idris is a governorship aspirant under the NDC.
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Politics