2027: Yusuf Buhari, beyond family name

Beyond the name of his father, Yusuf Buhari, who recently announced his bid to run for the House of Representatives seat for Daura/Mai’adua/Sandamu Federal Constituency, is entering the contest as a political novice. Checks by our correspondent revealed that, prior to his recent declaration, he was not known to have vied for any political office, […]

Beyond the name of his father, Yusuf Buhari, who recently announced his bid to run for the House of Representatives seat for Daura/Mai’adua/Sandamu Federal Constituency, is entering the contest as a political novice.

Checks by our correspondent revealed that, prior to his recent declaration, he was not known to have vied for any political office, even during the eight years his father served as president.

Compared to others in similar positions, he is seen as a quiet and unassuming young man who prefers to live a private life.

Our correspondent recalls that the major episode that brought him into public scrutiny was when he had an accident while riding a power bike in Abuja. However, after recovering, he returned to his private life, with his sisters attracting more public attention as children of the President.

His decision to venture into politics, therefore, came as a surprise to many.

What might have prompted the young man to embrace the visibility and scrutiny that come with public office?

Some observers suggest he may have been encouraged by political actors who believe his father played a significant role in shaping their careers and who now expect him to extend similar support to his son.

Others argue that the younger Buhari has long harboured political ambitions but had been waiting for the right time to declare his interest.

A key development in the unfolding process was his meeting last week with Katsina State Governor, Umaru Dikko Radda, during which he formally expressed his intention to contest for a seat in the House of Representatives.

Political analysts interpret the visit as a strategic move to secure the governor’s backing and align with the state’s political structure ahead of the race.

During the meeting, Governor Radda reportedly told Yusuf and his delegation that, as a beneficiary of the goodwill of the late President Muhammadu Buhari, he would remain loyal to the former leader’s family and would not act in a manner that undermines them.

“I can never betray Buhari’s family. I have been a beneficiary of his good reputation since the days of the CPC to date. Buhari is late now. May his soul rest in peace. Therefore, I wish Yusuf well and all the best in your political pursuit,” he said.

Our correspondent reports that a series of political consultations and behind-the-scenes manoeuvring have begun to reshape the political landscape in Katsina State following Yusuf’s declaration of interest.

Sources within the All Progressives Congress (APC) said the move is not spontaneous but the result of sustained strategic engagements with key stakeholders in the ruling party, as well as the influence of prominent community leaders across the Daura/Mai’adua/Sandamu Federal Constituency.

Party insiders disclosed that Yusuf has, in recent weeks, intensified consultations to build broad-based support within the APC and minimise potential friction ahead of the primaries. These efforts reportedly include meetings with party elders, political allies of his late father, grassroots mobilisers, and the state governor.

At the grassroots level, there are indications of growing support for the young aspirant, particularly in communities that formed the core political base of his father.

Some community leaders are said to view his ambition as an expression of the collective will of the people, pointing to the enduring political influence of the Buhari family in the constituency.

However, the development has not been without dissenting voices within the APC, as some stakeholders have raised concerns over what they perceive as a potential attempt to impose a candidate, warning that such a move could undermine internal democracy within the party.

Some persons argue that while the Buhari name carries significant influence, it should not override considerations of competence and the need for an independent political identity.

A Daura-based grassroots politician, Malam Lawal Mato Daura, said many in the area view the move as an attempt to impose a candidate on the electorate, adding that several stakeholders in the constituency have expressed reservations from the outset.

“There are already individuals who have been preparing to test their popularity within the APC, and suddenly, Yusuf is introduced, someone many feel is not familiar with local dynamics. There are indications that his ambition may be forced on us. As politicians, we have ways of expressing our disagreement,” he said.

Another grassroots politician, Aminu Hamza, noted that one of the major challenges Yusuf may face is public perception of his father’s administration, which some believe was affected by certain issues during his presidency.

He also pointed to concerns over the distribution of federal projects, alleging that many initiatives executed during Buhari’s tenure were concentrated in Daura metropolis, including the Air Force Reference Hospital, Federal University of Transportation, Federal Medical Centre Daura, Federal Polytechnic Daura, the 171 Battalion, and road projects. This, he said, has generated dissatisfaction in Sandamu and Mai’adua areas.

It was gathered that not all political actors within the constituency support Yusuf’s bid, with several aspirants, including the incumbent lawmaker, Aminu Jamo, and his allies, viewing his entry with caution.

Another potential hurdle is the long-standing aspiration of Daura to produce a governor, which has yet to materialise. With renewed hopes following Lawal Musa Daura’s declaration, some believe this factor could influence political calculations and affect Yusuf’s chances in the general election, as concessions may be required for other local governments in the constituency.

Despite these challenges, Yusuf Buhari appears to be gaining traction, particularly in Daura, where some initial opponents, including El-Marzuk, are now backing him.

In Sandamu, certain political figures who earlier indicated interest in the race have reportedly stepped down in his favour out of respect for his family.

Among those said to have pledged support are the current LGA chairman, Usman Nalado; former Speaker and House of Representatives member, Sani Saidu Fago; and retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Mustapha Muhammad Bala.

In Mai’adua, he is also believed to enjoy support from influential figures such as Yau Umar Gwajo Gwajo, a former Speaker in Katsina and current political adviser to the governor, alongside other local and traditional leaders.

While Yusuf Buhari is gradually building support in parts of the constituency, his prospects will depend on his ability to navigate these challenges and secure broader acceptance across Daura, Sandamu, and Mai’adua.

Political analysts observe that his entry into partisan politics presents both opportunities and challenges. Although his family name provides instant recognition and a loyal base, it also comes with high expectations from constituents who may demand performance that reflects his father’s legacy.

As the 2027 elections approach, emerging alliances and subtle power dynamics suggest that the race for the federal constituency seat will be highly competitive, with Yusuf Buhari’s anticipated candidacy already attracting significant attention within and beyond Katsina State.