2027 Elections: Popular Islamic Cleric Declares Governorship Bid
- A prominent Islamic cleric has formally declared his intention to contest the Sokoto state governorship in the 2027 general election
- He said the decision followed extensive consultations and visits to dozens of rural communities where residents raised concerns over living conditions and insecurity
- The scholar noted that despite years of staying away from partisan politics, he now feels compelled to step forward in response to the situation on the ground
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Legit.ng Journalist Muslim Muhammad Yusuf is a 2025 Wole Soyinka Award winner, with over 8 years of experience in investigative reporting, human rights, politics, governance, and accountability in Nigeria.
Sokoto state - A renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Bashir Ahmad Sani, has declared his intention to contest the Sokoto state governorship in the 2027 general election.
The cleric made the announcement during his 2026 Ramadan Tafsir in Sokoto, explaining that the decision came after an extensive tour of 65 villages across the state.
Source: Facebook
According to him, the visits exposed him to deep concerns from residents over the lack of basic amenities and what he described as worsening insecurity in several rural communities.
He said many of the areas he visited are in urgent need of government attention, noting that hardship among residents appears to be increasing.
As reported by Daily Trust, Sheikh Bashir explained that for more than two decades, he has focused on preaching peace and teaching Islamic values without participating in partisan politics.
Cleric explains what motivated him
The scholar stated that his recent engagements with community members revealed troubling accounts of abductions and other security challenges allegedly linked to banditry, as well as widespread poverty affecting families in remote villages.
He added that although associates and fellow clerics had previously encouraged him to consider public office, he had consistently declined due to the weight of leadership responsibility.
However, he said the realities he encountered during his outreach efforts compelled him to reconsider his position and step forward ahead of the 2027 race.
Source: Facebook
Sokoto gov. approves early payment of Feb. salaries
Legit.ng earlier reported that there was excitement among workers in Sokoto state on Thursday, February 12, after Governor Ahmed Aliyu approved the early payment of February 2026 salaries ahead of the Ramadan fast.
In a statement issued by Abubakar Bawa, his director-general of media and publicity, the governor directed that salaries be paid from Friday, February 13, 2026, to enable workers to prepare adequately for the holy month.
The statement issued via X and seen by Legit.ng on Thursday, February 12, stated that the payment covers employees in the state civil service, staff of local government councils, Local Government Education Authority (LGEA) workers, as well as pensioners across the state.
Sokoto governor speaks on Ramadan preparations
Governor Aliyu said the decision was taken to ensure that civil servants and retirees begin the Ramadan period without financial strain.
He urged beneficiaries to reciprocate the gesture by demonstrating greater commitment to their duties.
According to him, workers are expected to be punctual, diligent and sincere in carrying out their responsibilities so that the administration can fulfil its promises to the people.
Source: Legit.ng
