Governorship candidates of various political parties in Kaduna State, have distanced themselves from rumours alleging the endorsement of a consensus candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that the information is completely false.
The candidates described a social media report claiming otherwise as misleading, appealing to members of the public to disregard the report and warning those spreading the information to desist from circulating falsehood.
Yusuf Idris, spokesperson to the Kaduna State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, governorship candidate, Usman Shehu Bawa, popularly known as ABG, in a statement on Tuesday, described the report as fake, malicious and mischievous.
According to the statement, “The report was circulated following a meeting of governorship candidates in the state, where they reaffirmed their commitment to political freedom, inclusion and a credible electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.”
He explained that the meeting focused on concerns over the alleged persecution of opposition figures and the shrinking space for alternative political voices under the current administration, adding that the opposition candidates stressed the need to protect fundamental rights, promote political pluralism and guarantee a level playing field for all political parties participating in the forthcoming elections.
According to the candidates, no government should deploy state power to intimidate political opponents, restrict legitimate political activities or undermine citizens’ constitutional right to freely elect their leaders, pledging to strengthen cooperation among opposition parties, promote peaceful political engagement and work towards ensuring that the 2027 elections are free, fair, transparent and reflective of the genuine wishes of the people of Kaduna State.
The statement explained that neither Usman Shehu Bawa nor any of the other governorship candidates indicated an interest in endorsing another aspirant during or after the meeting, urging the public to disregard the circulating report.
They called on those responsible for spreading the misinformation to desist and allow political campaigns to focus on issues affecting the people.
The candidates reiterated their commitment to issue-based political engagement and a credible electoral process as Kaduna State prepares for the 2027 governorship election.