Senator Shehu Buba Umar has stepped back from the APC governorship primary in Bauchi State. The contest was set for May 21, 2026.
Buba represents Bauchi South in the 10th Senate. He cited irregularities and breaches of electoral law in his withdrawal statement.
His media adviser, Sabo Muhammad, released the announcement on his behalf. The senator alleged violations of the 1999 Constitution, the Electoral Act 2026, and party guidelines.
According to Buba, leadership crises have crippled the APC in Bauchi. Vacant positions like State Secretary and Organising Secretary created chaos, he noted.
Ward, local government and state congresses all suffered from these disputes. He said attempts to resolve the issues proved fruitless.
Buba stressed that his campaign was rooted in APC principles of internal democracy. He pointed to Articles 7(ix) and (x) of the party constitution on the rule of law.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had earlier called for fairness among aspirants. But Buba claimed the House and Senate primaries fell short of democratic standards.
Party officials allegedly operated from undisclosed hotels across Bauchi. Results were released without actual voting taking place, he alleged.
No electoral officials appeared at polling stations during the primaries. Aspirants weren't informed about voting venues or collation centres, according to the senator.
Distribution of election materials remained a mystery, Buba told reporters. Only "prearranged winners" seemed to know what was happening, he argued.
The senator consulted with his supporters before making the withdrawal decision. Family members and political associates were part of the discussions.
He urged his backers to remain calm during this difficult period. The situation required patience and steadfastness from all loyalists.
Buba expressed gratitude toward President Tinubu for leading both the party and nation. He pledged his continued backing ahead of upcoming general elections.
