By Khalid Idris Doya
The Bauchi State governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 general elections, Air Marshal Saddique Baba Abubakar (retd), has stepped aside and retired from active politics for undisclosed reasons.
Saddique, a former Chief of Air Staff (CAS), ventured into politics in 2021 after retiring from the Nigerian Air Force. He emerged as one of the leading contenders in the 2023 governorship election in Bauchi State but was defeated by Governor Bala Mohammed of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the retired Air Marshal was widely expected to contest again for the governorship seat under the platform of the Action Democratic Party (ADP). However, in a move that surprised many of his supporters and political associates, he announced his decision to quit politics.
In a short video message released to the people of Bauchi State in Hausa Language on Saturday, Saddique described the decision as a difficult one and apologised to his supporters.
Despite stepping away from politics, he said he would continue to contribute to the development of Bauchi State, particularly in the areas of health and education through his "Marshal Care Foundation."
"Today, with a heavy heart, I have made the difficult decision to leave politics for personal reasons.
"This decision did not come easily, considering the love, support, and affection shown to me by the people of Bauchi State and Nigerians since I joined politics in 2021."
He expressed appreciation to his supporters and prayed for Allah's blessings upon them.
"I sincerely apologise to all my supporters and well-wishers over this difficult decision, and I wish everyone the very best," he added.
Saddique further assured that his retirement from politics would not stop him from serving humanity.
"My retirement from politics will not prevent me from continuing to support the community through the Marshal Care Foundation, especially in the areas of education and healthcare," he said.
He concluded by praying for peace, stability, and progress in Bauchi and the country at large.
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