By Adamu Yusuf
The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kaduna State, Usman Shehu Bawa, popularly known as Shehu ABG, has joined other opposition candidates in calling for free, fair and credible elections ahead of the 2027 general elections.
A statement by his spokesperson, Yusuf Idris, said the opposition candidates, including Isa Ashiru of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), made the call at a meeting in Kaduna, where they expressed concern over what they described as the persecution of opposition figures and shrinking space for alternative political voices under the current administration.
The candidates stressed the need to protect fundamental rights, promote political pluralism and ensure a level playing field for all political parties participating in the forthcoming elections.
They maintained that no government should use state power to intimidate political opponents, restrict legitimate political activities or undermine the right of citizens to freely choose their leaders.
The candidates clarified that their meeting was not driven by partisan rivalry but by a shared commitment to protecting the electoral process and ensuring that political parties operate without undue interference.
They also pledged to strengthen cooperation, promote peaceful political engagement and pursue elections that reflect the genuine wishes of the people of Kaduna State.
The opposition candidates reaffirmed their commitment to pursuing their political ambitions through lawful and peaceful means, while urging relevant authorities to create an environment in which all parties can organise, campaign and compete fairly.
Editing by Khadija Kubau