The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress in Zamfara State, Bilyaminu Yusuf Shinkafi, has pledged to prioritise security, address the grievances of dismissed workers and seek fair resolutions to property demolitions if elected governor in 2027.
Shinkafi made the pledges on Thursday night during a campaign event in Gusau, where a large crowd of supporters gathered to welcome him ahead of the inauguration of his campaign council and the flag-off of his campaign activities.
The turnout reportedly disrupted the scheduled activities of Shikanfi until after 8pm as supporters trooped out to receive the ADC candidate.
Addressing the gathering, Shinkafi expressed condolences to families affected by persistent insecurity in the state, acknowledging the loss of lives, displacement and destruction of livelihoods caused by attacks.
He said restoring peace would be a priority, stressing that residents deserved to live without constant fear.
“The people of Zamfara deserve to live without constant fear. Restoring peace must be the foundation for rebuilding our communities, supporting our farmers and reviving economic activities,” he said.
The ADC candidate also expressed sympathy for residents whose properties were reportedly demolished by the state government without compensation, promising to address their grievances if elected.
He said affected property owners deserved a fair hearing and a resolution to their complaints.
On the reported dismissal of thousands of workers by the state government, Shinkafi expressed concern about the consequences for affected employees and their families.
He pledged to address their concerns if elected, describing workers’ welfare as an issue that required attention from any responsible administration.
“Governance should not be about exercising power without regard for the people. It should be about protecting their interests, addressing their grievances and creating opportunities for them to live with dignity,” he said.
Vows to give residents greater say
Shinkafi also promised to give the people of Zamfara a greater voice in the management of the state’s affairs.
He criticised what he described as the growing involvement of non-indigenes in the running of the state, arguing that residents should have a stronger say in decisions affecting their communities, resources and future.
He said public institutions should be accountable to the people and responsive to their needs.
Shinkafi urged residents to support his ambition, promising to put their welfare at the centre of his administration if elected.