Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has reiterated his unwavering loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that he will abide by the party's decision whether to adopt a consensus candidate or hold a direct primary for the 2027 Bauchi State governorship election. Tuggar made this known on Sunday in Bauchi while addressing the media, approximately 24 hours after officially declaring his intention to contest for the governorship seat.
Tuggar's Commitment to Party Decisions
When asked about the possibility of the APC pushing for a consensus arrangement or opting for a direct primary, Tuggar affirmed his dedication to the party's processes. He stated: 'Regarding the issue of consensus or primary election, I am a party man, I have always been so. There is no instance where I participated in party primaries or vied for a position or party ticket and ended up going to court or working against the final outcome.' He further noted that former chairmen of the APC, ANPP, and CPC, who were seated with him, could attest to his loyalty to any party he has joined. 'Whatever the party decides, I go along with it. However, if it is a contest between political parties, that is a different matter. I have gone to the Supreme Court to challenge an election,' he added.
Focus on Agriculture and Industrialisation
Tuggar, who resigned from his ministerial position in March to contest the governorship election, outlined his major focus areas. He emphasized the need to revolutionise the state's agribusiness sector and industrialise its components. According to him, Bauchi State's potential has not been fully utilised to benefit its residents. He pledged to improve and support the development of the state's mineral resources, aiming to boost economic growth and create employment opportunities.
Competition for APC Ticket
The former minister is the third aspirant within the Bauchi APC to officially announce his intention to contest the party ticket. He will face Senator Shehu Buba Umar, representing Bauchi South Senatorial District, and Bala Wunti, a former top official of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). In the coming days, other aspirants within the party are expected to step forward for the governorship ticket. There has been ongoing debate within the party in Bauchi regarding whether the aspirants will agree to a consensus arrangement or proceed to a primary election.
