Ex-SSG Kashim Enters 2027 Bauchi Governorship Race Under SDP Banner
Ibrahim Kashim, the immediate past Secretary to the Bauchi State Government and former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the 2023 election, has officially declared his candidacy for the 2027 gubernatorial race. He will contest under the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), marking a significant shift in his political affiliation.
Addressing Bauchi's Poverty and Economic Potential
During an interaction with journalists on Monday, Kashim expressed deep concern over Bauchi State's status as one of the poorest states in Nigeria, despite its abundant natural and human resources. He described this situation as a disheartening narrative that requires urgent intervention.
Kashim, who previously served as the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprise (BPE), outlined his vision for the state. He emphasized the need for a homegrown industrial revolution to revive moribund industries such as the Steyr Automobile Assembly Company, Fertiliser Blending Company, Allind Cables and Wires, and the Bauchi Meat Factory. According to him, these efforts are crucial for driving development at the grassroots level and leveraging the state's agricultural strengths.
"Bauchi State is one of the largest producers of rice, tomatoes, peppers, and other agricultural produce," Kashim noted. "Yet, we remain impoverished. My plan is to harness these resources through industrial revitalization to create jobs and boost the economy."
Political Strategy and Party Choice
Explaining his decision to join the SDP, Kashim stated that he was happy to have left the PDP before it "exploded," implying internal turmoil within the party. He praised the electorate in Bauchi State for their discernment, highlighting that they vote for credible candidates rather than merely supporting big political parties.
"We have knowledgeable voters in Bauchi who don't just follow major parties but choose candidates based on merit, even from so-called minor parties," he said. "This has happened in the past, and it will continue. Our people know what they want."
Regarding potential defections, including that of Governor Bala Mohammed from the PDP, Kashim welcomed others to join the SDP, citing its people-oriented ideology. However, he made it clear that he would not step down for anyone, expressing confidence in winning the party's primary ticket.
"They are free to join us, but I'm not stepping down. We will go for the primary, and I'm confident of victory," he asserted.
Relationship with Former Principal and Corruption Allegations
Kashim also addressed his relationship with Governor Bala Mohammed, whom he served under as SSG and Director-General of the Bauchi State Bureau of Public Enterprise and Privatisation. He expressed respect for the governor, acknowledging the opportunity to serve but clarifying that their relationship is not political.
"This is the man who called me to work as Secretary to the Government. We have a good relationship, but it's not political. When I decided to contest, I wrote to him, and he visited me when I lost my father last month," Kashim explained.
In response to allegations of corruption during his tenure, Kashim challenged anyone to provide evidence of mismanagement of public funds. He pointed out that he has never been probed, faced a panel of inquiry, or been charged in court, either during or after his time as SSG.
"What people don't know is that an SSG doesn't have the power to approve or spend a kobo without the governor's knowledge. I have never touched any government money," he stated firmly.
Legislative Achievements and Future Plans
Reflecting on his previous role in the Bala Mohammed administration before his resignation, Kashim highlighted several legislative contributions that led to improved internally generated revenue (IGR) and the establishment of an infrastructure maintenance agency, among other initiatives. He pledged to build on these efforts if elected, focusing on sustainable development and economic empowerment for the people of Bauchi State.
