Jonathan/Kauran Bauchi: A winning ticket for Nigeria?

Nigerians are yearning for good leadership, where credibility and capacity define the direction of voters, as the country seeks to overcome its numerous challenges. The desire for a leadership that can harness the nation’s potential and unite its people has never been more pressing.

Former President of Nigeria Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, the current Governor of Bauchi State, also known as Kauran Bauchi, could potentially form a strong ticket for the 2027 elections. Jonathan’s experience as a former President and Governor of Bayelsa State, combined with Mohammed’s governance skills as a former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and his strides in Bauchi State, make them a formidable team.

Jonathan’s leadership style and understanding of Nigeria’s complexities make him an attractive candidate. During his presidency, he implemented policies like the Almajiri education programme and the YouWin entrepreneurship scheme, showcasing his commitment to youth development and economic growth.

Historically, the former President has set precedence of good leadership with emphasis and priorities on Nigerians and Nigeria at the core of his ambition. His commitment to the welfare and development of the country is evident in his policies and programmes, which have had a lasting impact on the nation.

Kauran Bauchi had the fortune of working closely with Jonathan, and thus has been able to rewrite the history of Bauchi State through his current legacy projects. As a governor, he has built on the foundations laid by Jonathan, and has taken the state to new heights of development and progress. His achievements in Bauchi State are a testament to the impact of good leadership and the importance of continuity in governance.

As the current chairman of PDP Governors’ Forum, Kauran Bauchi’s network and influence will be a significant advantage in building a strong opposition party. His commitment to unity and collaboration among governors will help to create a formidable force that can hold the ruling party accountable.

Governor Bala’s recent statements criticising President Tinubu’s administration are a testament to his willingness to speak truth to power. At a time when average Nigerians are struggling to make ends meet, his words resonate with the masses. By highlighting the failures of the current government, he is giving voice to the voiceless and demonstrating his commitment to advocating for the people.

As a leader who is not afraid to speak his mind, Kauran Bauchi’s presence on the ticket with Jonathan will bring a sense of boldness and courage to the ticket. His ability to mobilise governors and party stakeholders will be crucial in building a strong grassroots movement that can propel the ticket to victory. With his network and influence, he will be a valuable asset to the Jonathan/Kauran Bauchi ticket.

Having contested the party’s ticket in the 2023 PDP presidential primaries, Kauran Bauchi possesses the political acumen to make it an easy ride for the party to return to power. His experience and knowledge of the party’s inner workings will be invaluable in navigating the complexities of party politics, making him an ideal running mate for Jonathan as Nigerians continue to yearn for Jonathan’s return.

This achievement is a testament to Kauran Bauchi’s commitment to delivering tangible results and improving the lives of his people. His ability to transcend party lines and receive accolades from different administrations demonstrates his focus on governance rather than politics. This unique blend of leadership and governance skills makes him an ideal partner for Jonathan, and together, they can bring about the transformation Nigeria so desperately needs.

I had the privilege of meeting with Kauran Bauchi in 2018 to express my desire to work with him. Initially hesitant, I revealed my Christian faith, to which he responded, ‘If Goodluck Jonathan, a Christian from Southern Nigeria, can work with me, a Muslim from the far North, why can’t I work with you, a Christian from Bauchi State?’ True to his word, he has collaborated with me till this day, despite all odds.

This testament to his character is further evidenced by his balanced political appointments in Bauchi State, which transcend religious and tribal biases, fostering trust and unity throughout the state. This inclusive approach could be replicated nationwide with their ticket. Under the visionary leadership of Governor Bala Mohammed, Bauchi State is experiencing unprecedented growth and development, driven by its inclusive and peaceful environment. His unwavering commitment to a united Nigeria, where competence and credibility are the sole criteria for success, has fostered a harmonious and stable society, propelling the state to new heights.

It is safe to conclude that Jonathan/Kauran Bauchi is a winning ticket for Nigeria. Their combined experience, leadership skills, and commitment to good governance make them a formidable team. Jonathan’s understanding of Nigeria’s complexities and Kauran Bauchi’s governance skills, network, and influence will bring about the transformation Nigeria needs. Their ability to transcend religious and tribal biases, foster trust and unity, and deliver tangible results makes them an ideal pair to lead Nigeria to prosperity and harmony.

• Sanga, Is Jagaban Wunti writes from Bauchi via [email protected]