Sheikh Gumi's Son Mubarak Declares 2027 Political Ambition for Kaduna Assembly
In a significant political development, Mubarak Ahmad-Gumi, the son of prominent Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has officially declared his intention to contest the 2027 elections for a seat in the Kaduna State House of Assembly. The announcement, made on February 23, 2026, marks a notable entry into electoral politics for the young aspirant, who plans to represent the Doka/Gabasawa constituency under the banner of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Constituent Appeals Drive Political Decision
Ahmad-Gumi revealed that his decision to enter the political arena was primarily influenced by persistent appeals from residents of the Doka/Gabasawa area. According to him, constituents encouraged him to step forward and offer himself for public service, recognizing a need for fresh representation. "My aspiration to represent Doka/Gabasawa is rooted in service," he stated, emphasizing his commitment to being accessible, accountable, and practical in addressing local concerns.
Legislative Experience as Preparation
Currently serving as a legislative aide to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, Ahmad-Gumi highlighted his exposure to legislative work as crucial preparation for elected office. "My legislative experience has given me firsthand insight into how laws are shaped, how policies affect ordinary citizens, and how important effective representation truly is," he explained. This role, he believes, has equipped him with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of lawmaking and governance.
Call for Youth Participation and Innovation
Ahmad-Gumi positioned his candidacy within a broader narrative of generational change, describing Nigeria's political moment as a "generational crossroads." He argued that the country's large youth population must be channeled into governance through innovation and evidence-based policymaking. "Young Nigerians today are technologically skilled, data-driven, innovative, and globally connected. We understand entrepreneurship, digital systems, and modern problem-solving approaches," he noted, urging a shift from social media commentary to active political participation.
He elaborated on this vision with a metaphor: "If a bucket that is half full is placed under a running tap, over time it overflows… as the fresh water naturally replaces the old water. It is not a battle; it is a process. That is how I see youth participation in politics; not as a forceful takeover, but as steady, consistent engagement until leadership reflects both experience and new ideas."
Academic Background and Broader Vision
Ahmad-Gumi holds a Bachelor's degree in Management Information Systems with a minor in Public Administration from the University of Sharjah and is pursuing a Master's degree in Data Analysis and Statistics at the Nigerian Defence Academy. He emphasized that Nigeria's progress depends on collective responsibility that transcends religious and ethnic divides. "Politics should not be left only to a few. It is a shared responsibility," he asserted, advocating for inclusive governance.
Key Points of His Campaign
- Service-Oriented Representation: Focus on being accessible and accountable to constituents.
- Youth Engagement: Encouraging young Nigerians to move from online activism to practical political involvement.
- Innovation in Governance: Leveraging technological skills and data-driven approaches for policymaking.
- Collaborative Leadership: Blending youthful energy with the experience of older leaders for balanced governance.
The declaration sets the stage for what could be a closely watched electoral contest in Kaduna State, as Ahmad-Gumi seeks to translate his background and vision into tangible political success. His entry into the race underscores a growing trend of younger candidates stepping into Nigerian politics, aiming to reshape traditional dynamics with modern perspectives.
