By Ahmad Muhammad
A coalition of women's groups in Bauchi State has announced the withdrawal of its endorsement and organised support for the People's Redemption Party (PRP) governorship candidate, Senator Shehu Buba Umar, ahead of the 2027 general election.
The coalition, comprising women groups, civil society organisations, community-based organisations, youth groups and other concerned stakeholders across the state, said it has instead reaffirmed its support and loyalty to Hajiya Baheejah Mahmood Abdullahi, who contested for the party's deputy governorship ticket alongside six other aspirants.
In a statement signed by Hajiya Halima Nuhu Mohammed, the coalition said the decision followed Senator Shehu Buba's announcement of his running mate without what it described as meaningful consultation with key stakeholders, particularly women who had consistently advocated for fair representation and inclusion throughout the selection process.
"Our support for Senator Shehu Buba Umar was based on the expectation that the principles of justice, inclusiveness, consultation and equity would guide critical decisions," the statement read.
"Unfortunately, the process leading to the selection of his deputy failed to reflect these values and ignored the legitimate aspirations of women across Bauchi State who had worked tirelessly for the success of the project."
The coalition said that while it respected the candidate's constitutional right to make political decisions, it also reserved the democratic right to review its position whenever such decisions no longer reflected the values and expectations of those it represents.
The groups described Hajiya Baheejah Mahmood Abdullahi as a woman of integrity, courage and exceptional leadership, reaffirming their unwavering solidarity with her.
According to the statement, Baheejah is a grassroots politician, an outstanding women mobiliser and a committed humanitarian whose contributions include playing a leading role in the establishment of the Bauchi State Orphans and Vulnerable Children Agency during the administration of former Governor Isa Yuguda.
The coalition noted that her decades of public service had earned her the confidence and support of thousands of women, youths, community organisations and civil society groups across Bauchi State.
It further stated that many political stakeholders had believed her emergence as the party's deputy governorship candidate would have strengthened the PRP's political structure, promoted gender inclusion, expanded grassroots support and enhanced its chances in the 2027 governorship election.
"Although that opportunity has been denied, our confidence in her leadership remains stronger than ever," the statement added.
The coalition urged Baheejah not to be discouraged by the development but to remain committed to the pursuit of justice, equity and good governance.
It also pledged to stand by her in whatever lawful and democratic political path she chooses, stressing that its movement is driven by the principles of justice, inclusion, competence and service rather than personalities.
"Together, we shall continue to work for a Bauchi State where merit is rewarded, women are respected as equal partners in leadership, and every citizen has an opportunity to contribute to the development of our dear state," the statement concluded.
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