By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

Kaduna – A governorship aspirant under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kaduna State, Rt. Hon. Shehu Usman Bawa (ABG), has criticised the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), blaming it for worsening economic hardship and insecurity in the country, while declaring his readiness to offer alternative leadership in the 2027 elections.

Bawa made the remarks during separate consultations with PDP stakeholders in Zones 1 and 2 of the state, where he expressed concern over the rising cost of living and declining purchasing power affecting residents.

He said many households are under severe financial pressure, with increasing difficulty in affording basic necessities, and called for urgent policy reforms to address the situation.

The aspirant also raised concerns about the security situation in Kaduna State, noting that several communities continue to face threats that require stronger and better-coordinated government intervention.

According to him, restoring public confidence in governance would require deliberate efforts to tackle both economic challenges and insecurity simultaneously.

Comparing the present administration with previous PDP-led governments, Bawa argued that essential commodity prices were more stable in the past than they are currently.

He further criticised reliance on palliative measures, describing them as short-term fixes that do not address the underlying causes of economic hardship. He instead called for policies focused on job creation, economic growth, and sustainable development.

“The 2027 elections will be a referendum on governance, economic management, and the wellbeing of our people,” he said.

Bawa urged party stakeholders to intensify grassroots mobilisation and strengthen internal unity ahead of the polls, while assuring supporters of his commitment to inclusive and people-oriented leadership if elected.

In their responses, PDP zonal chairmen commended his consultations across the state and expressed confidence in the party’s prospects in the 2027 elections. They also stressed that unity within the party would be crucial to securing victory at the polls.