Political stakeholders including local government chairmen, state commissioners and House of Assembly members in Kaduna Central senatorial district, have endorsed former lawmaker, Shehu Sani, as their preferred candidate ahead of the senatorial primaries.

Mr Sani was endorsed during an event held at the Governor Uba Sani Campaign Office in Kaduna on Wednesday. 

Speaking at the event, the state commissioner for local government affairs, Sadiq Mamman, stated that the endorsement followed wide consultations among stakeholders across Kaduna Central.

The politician, however, said the endorsement did not stop competitive primary election.

“Major stakeholders across Kaduna Central, including local government leaders, have agreed on a candidate. This decision is based on credibility, proven track record, and widespread acceptance. It does not mean others cannot contest the primaries,” he stated.

Mr Mamman noted that Mr Sani was endorsed based on his experience and track record during his previous tenue in the National Assembly. 

“We are looking for someone we can confidently present to the people, someone who can win. At this point, we do not see any other aspirant with the same level of acceptance. He has served before, and his record speaks for him. He remains one of the most popular political figures, not only in Kaduna Central but across the country.

“This is not a personal decision. It is a joint resolution of local government chairmen and stakeholders. On behalf of them all, we have endorsed Comrade Shehu Sani,” the politician added.

Reacting to the endorsement, Mr Sani thanked the stakeholders for the gesture and urged political actors to prioritise national unity over personal ambition.

“I sincerely thank all stakeholders, party executives, and leaders at both state and local government levels, particularly the governor, for this endorsement. It is a challenge, a recognition of past efforts, and an appeal for greater service ahead.

“If we desire peace, stability, and economic progress, we must respect fairness and established principles of balance and inclusion. The choice before us is to support continuity, strengthen unity, and ensure that democracy works for everyone,” he added.

Mr Sani, an erstwhile lawmaker from 2015 to 2019, picked All Progressives Congress expression of interest and nomination forms in April to contest the Kaduna Central senatorial district seat next year.