John Yayock Solomon wants to be governor of Kaduna State. The politician and former deputy governorship candidate sat down to discuss his 2027 ambitions.
Insecurity remains the biggest crisis facing the state today. Yayock, who describes himself as a security expert, believes he can tackle this head-on if elected.
"I have colleagues and friends both within Nigeria and abroad who can help," he told our reporter. "Together, we'll find lasting solutions to the insecurity challenges."
Healthcare is another area demanding urgent attention. Rural communities especially lack proper medical facilities, he noted.
Yayock promised to renovate hospitals across the state. He'd also ensure free and quality health services for all residents, he said.
But why the Action Democratic Party? Nigeria has 22 registered political platforms to choose from.
His people called on him to run on the ADP platform. He researched the party carefully before making his decision.
"ADP is crisis-free," Yayock explained to us. "It's a credible alternative where politicians don't face witch-hunts or internal scheming."
Divisions plague other parties in Kaduna State today. ADP operates differently, he stressed.
The party's presidential primary recently produced Aliyu Abbas as its flagbearer. Some observers questioned the process, but Yayock defended it.
He's known Abbas for years through various movements. "He'll deliver if elected president," Yayock said confidently.
Politics always involves some level of maneuvering. Abbas's emergence wasn't abnormal, according to him.
"Even in our houses we face challenges," he noted philosophically. "This process is purely politicking and it's okay."
Yayock praised ADP National Chairman Yabagi Yusuf Sani for allowing the people's will to prevail. "Other parties couldn't pull this off," he added.
Now comes the real test. How does he plan to defeat Governor Uba Sani of the APC?
His campaign will be committed and strategic. Victory for ADP in Kaduna is achievable, he believes.
But Yayock won't publicly attack Sani's record. "If I expose his weaknesses now, I give him time to respond," he reasoned.
His campaign will focus on the incumbent's shortcomings instead. Those gaps represent their opportunity to win, he argued.
The 2027 election remains two years away. Preparation is already underway for the ADP candidate.
Yayock's platform emphasizes security, healthcare, and party stability. These issues resonate with Kaduna residents.
His background in public administration could prove valuable. Human rights experience also shapes his political philosophy.
The race ahead won't be easy. But Yayock appears ready for the challenge ahead.