A stakeholder in Bauchi State, Aminu Bauchin Bauchi, has shed light on the reasons behind the growing demand for Bala Maijama'a Wunti to run for governor in the 2027 election. According to Aminu, this movement is fueled by Wunti's extensive humanitarian efforts and his significant contributions to the socio-economic development of the state.
Rooted in Philanthropy and Service
Aminu emphasized that Wunti's popularity among residents goes beyond partisan politics. It is built on a foundation of philanthropy, community service, and a steadfast commitment to improving the lives of ordinary citizens. Through the Wunti Al-Khair Foundation, the former senior executive of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has sponsored thousands of students, supported religious institutions, provided humanitarian aid to vulnerable groups, empowered women and youths, and facilitated technology and vocational skills training across Bauchi State.
The foundation has also implemented mentorship programs aimed at nurturing future leaders and creating opportunities for young people to become self-reliant.
Integrity and Accessibility
Aminu noted that the agitation for Wunti to become governor is inspired by what many perceive as his humility, accessibility, integrity, and accountability in both public and private life. “This is more than politics. It is about a man who has consistently touched lives and invested in people without occupying an elective position. Many people believe that if he could do so much as a private citizen, he would do even more with the mandate of the people,” Aminu said.
Wunti, a respected technocrat and former Group General Manager at NNPCL, retired from active service last year after a distinguished career in Nigeria's oil and gas industry. Following his retirement, pressure mounted from members of the ruling APC, youth groups, community leaders, and supporters urging him to seek the governorship. He eventually declared his interest but lost the APC ticket to former governor Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar.
Reluctance and Reflection
Recalling Wunti's initial response to the calls, Aminu said the former NNPCL executive expressed reluctance, stating that he had never aspired to be governor. “When the people asked him to consider contesting, he responded with remarkable honesty. He said: ‘I didn’t intend to become governor. Almighty Allah has blessed me with everything. All the essentials of life that one can ask for, Alhamdulillah, I have them.’” However, after persistent requests from elders, associates, community leaders, and ordinary citizens, Wunti gave the matter serious consideration.
According to Aminu, Wunti remarked: “When your parents, friends, brothers and sisters, the community that raised you, and even younger people are calling on you to lead with trust and sincerity, it becomes a responsibility that deserves serious reflection.”
Governance as a Sacred Trust
Aminu further stated that Wunti understands the enormous burden of leadership and has repeatedly emphasized that governance is a sacred trust, not an avenue for personal enrichment. He quoted Wunti as saying: “Being governor is not an easy responsibility. The education of our children, the security of our communities, and the welfare of every resident of Bauchi State would rest on my shoulders. That is a responsibility one must approach with fear of God and a deep sense of accountability.”
The stakeholder also disclosed that Wunti has consistently cautioned supporters against viewing political power as a means to access public resources for personal gain. “Whoever thinks that if I become governor, I will use public funds to enrich individuals should think again. I will never compromise my integrity or my relationship with God. Public resources belong to the people and must be used for their benefit,” he quoted Wunti as saying.
A Testimony of Grace and Hard Work
Wunti, according to Aminu, believes that his life story—from losing his parents at a young age to rising to the highest levels of Nigeria's petroleum industry—serves as a testimony to divine grace and hard work. “The blessings Allah has bestowed on me are more than enough. He raised me from an orphan to a position of national responsibility and influence. Therefore, I have every reason to serve humanity with gratitude and sincerity,” Wunti was quoted as saying.
Aminu maintained that it is this combination of professional accomplishment, philanthropy, and perceived personal integrity that continues to make Wunti a prominent figure in Bauchi's political landscape and fuels ongoing calls for him to play a greater role in the state's future.
