Ahead of the 2027 general elections, a significant political movement has emerged in Adamawa State, with constituents of the Mubi North, Mubi South, and Maiha Federal Constituency throwing their weight behind a female candidate for the National Assembly.
Cross-Sectional Endorsement for Historic Representation
Over 3,000 supporters gathered at a massive rally in Mubi to unanimously endorse Engineer Ramatu Sali Bello to represent them in the House of Representatives. This endorsement, announced on 6 January 2026, is a historic push for the constituency to be represented by a woman in the National Assembly for the first time.
The support cuts across traditional institutions, women's groups, youth organisations, and key political stakeholders. It highlights a growing demand for increased female representation at the national level, particularly in a legislature where women remain severely underrepresented.
Ramatu's Pledge and Grassroots Connection
The rally, held at the Sani Bello Hall during the Yuletide period, doubled as Engr. Bello's homecoming and a charity event marking her birthday. Addressing the crowd, she described the endorsement as a bold vote of confidence in women's capacity to lead effectively in legislation.
She pledged to be a strong and responsive voice for the constituency, focusing on people-oriented laws, attracting meaningful federal projects, and protecting the interests of women, youths, and rural communities. Engr. Bello argued that empowering women to win elective offices would deepen democracy, promote inclusive development, and strengthen governmental accountability.
She also commended Dr. Martina Yilwatda, wife of the APC National Chairman and Matron of Women Leaders Support Advancement, for a partnership that saw the Ramat Foundation empower 100 women petty traders with ₦50,000 each, calling it a practical example of women supporting one another.
Constituency Demands and Critique of Past Representation
Speaking for the endorsing leaders, Alhaji Hassan Pakka stated that the decision followed extensive consultations and reflects a collective desire for change. He credited Engr. Bello's widespread acceptance to her sustained grassroots interventions, which include distributing palliatives, providing potable water, and supporting farmers.
Pakka was critical of past representatives, accusing them of failing to attract a meaningful federal presence to tackle the area's persistent challenges. He listed youth unemployment, poor infrastructure, inadequate healthcare and education facilities, and insecurity in border communities of Maiha and parts of Mubi as key issues that need urgent legislative attention.
Dignitaries present at the rally included Ambassador Kevin Peter, Hon. J.J. Ahmed, Hon. Isah Yahaya Sorau, and other prominent leaders from across the federal constituency.
