A frontline governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress in Adamawa State, Dr Salihu Bakari Girei, on Thursday declared that he remained the most feared aspirant among contenders jostling for the party’s 2027 governorship ticket.
Girei said the desperation by some aspirants to secure endorsements and consensus arrangements was clear evidence that they were intimidated by his growing popularity and acceptance across the state.
The former Commissioner for Local Government Affairs stated this during a consultation meeting with party faithful and stakeholders in Mayo Belwa Local Government Area.
Addressing a cheering crowd of supporters, Girei said his opponents lacked the grassroots connection and people-oriented vision needed to govern Adamawa State effectively.
“I’m the aspirant others fear most because they know the people are with me. That is why they are moving from pillar to post looking for endorsements instead of preparing for open competition,” he said.
The aspirant recalled his humble background, saying his personal experience with hardship placed him in a better position to understand the plight of ordinary citizens.
According to him, there was a time during his university days when he survived with only two shirts and one pair of trousers after his father retired from the civil service without receiving gratuity for years.
“I know what suffering means. I soaked garri without sugar for days. I understand the pains of poor people because I experienced it firsthand,” he stated.
Girei, who also served as Executive Secretary of SUBEB and senior director at UBEC and TETFund, promised to prioritise education, healthcare, agriculture and job creation if elected governor.
He said Adamawa deserved a leader with practical experience, exposure and a clear understanding of the socio-economic realities confronting the people.
“As a farmer and someone from a modest background, I know what our people need. We will improve schools, empower teachers, build healthcare centres and create opportunities for youths,” he added.
Director-General of the SBG Governorship Campaign Council, Chief Phanuel Elias Mosu, urged party members to remain hopeful and united ahead of the 2027 elections.
He dismissed rumours surrounding the electoral process and commended President Bola Tinubu, security agencies and Governor Ahmadu Fintiri for supporting credible elections.
Also speaking, former Head of Service and ex-Federal Commissioner, Dr Louis Mandama, said Girei possessed the competence and political pedigree required to move Adamawa forward.
A former Commissioner for Information, Yohanna Mathias, expressed confidence that the diverse ethnic groups in Mayo Belwa would overwhelmingly support the aspirant because of his credibility and leadership qualities.
Party stakeholders at the meeting described Girei’s visit as impactful and timely, noting that his direct engagement with the people reflected sincerity and commitment to inclusive governance.
