The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Bauchi State, Adamu Usman Ahmed, has expressed confidence in his chances of winning the 2027 governorship election, dismissing concerns over the influence of the incumbent governor in determining the outcome of the poll.

Speaking with journalists in Abuja, Ahmed argued that the political history of Bauchi State showed that no sitting governor had successfully installed a successor, insisting that the electorate would ultimately decide who governs the state.

“You have a very strong opponent, especially since he is backed by the governor. What are your chances of being victorious?” he was asked.

Responding, Ahmed said: “The people of Bauchi are always wise, and several times, from the history of the state, there has never been a governor who was able to install a successor in the state. So the chances are clear, and the coast is clear for the opposition to win.”

The PDP candidate also described the honour bestowed on the party’s national chairman as a source of inspiration for young Nigerians, saying it underscored the opportunities available within the party for youths to aspire to leadership positions.

According to him, the PDP remains committed to nurturing a new generation of leaders capable of contributing to national development.

Ahmed further noted that the political landscape ahead of the 2027 election differs significantly from previous contests, citing the emergence of multiple parties and candidates in the governorship race.

He said unlike previous elections, which were largely dominated by two major parties, the forthcoming poll would feature several contenders, a development he believes would work in his favour.

“The dynamics of politics are very different nowadays, especially in the 2027 election. This is the first time we have about seven or eight political parties contesting for the governorship election.

Usually, it has been a two-horse race between the ruling party and the opposition. This time, we have several candidates from different parties, and that is my added advantage,” he said.

On the prospects of the PDP in the 2027 elections, Ahmed described the party as the most stable political platform in the country, claiming that many rival parties were grappling with internal crises arising from their primary elections.

He maintained that the PDP’s stability was attracting politicians from other parties, including some serving government officials who, according to him, were considering joining the opposition party.

“PDP is the only stable party in Nigeria because other parties are enmeshed in one crisis or another. After their primaries, there have been lots of defections, and many people are returning to us. Even some people in government are willing to join the PDP because of our stability and the prospects we have in the elections,” he said.

Ahmed also appealed to young people across Bauchi State and the country to actively participate in the democratic process and support credible candidates capable of addressing their concerns.

He said one of the major goals of his administration, if elected governor, would be the creation of jobs for young people, describing unemployment as a major driver of social unrest and insecurity.

“The major target of my government will be job creation because that is what is causing a lot of social crisis. Once we create jobs and empower the youth, it will help address the unrest and social challenges affecting our economy,” he added.