By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

SOKOTO — A prominent philanthropist and community leader, Alhaji Umar Ajiya Isa, popularly known as Ajiyan Sokoto, has declared his intention to contest the Sokoto East Senatorial seat on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The declaration, announced on Friday through the Ajiyan Sokoto Coordination Committee, followed what aides described as sustained calls from political stakeholders, party leaders, and constituents across the eight local government areas of Sokoto East.

In a statement signed by the committee’s Coordinator and Chairman, retired Permanent Secretary Nasiru Yahaya Isa, the decision was reached after consultations with party structures and grassroots supporters.

According to the statement, Isa, who registered as a member of the APC in August 2025, had been under increasing pressure to contest for a seat in the National Assembly.

“Following his registration as a card-carrying member of the APC, Alhaji Umar Ajiya Isa has been urged by the people of Sokoto East to offer himself for service at the National Assembly,” the statement said.

It added that the aspirant undertook wide consultations to assess public expectations before accepting the call, noting that his decision was guided by the principle of vox populi, vox Dei — the voice of the people is the voice of God.

“Ajiyan Sokoto hereby accepts the call to serve and has offered himself to contest the Sokoto East Senatorial District seat under the APC in the 2027 general elections,” it stated.

The committee described his ambition as service-driven, stressing that it is aimed at delivering purposeful and impactful representation to address developmental challenges in the district.

“His entry into the race is anchored on service, not self-aggrandisement. He remains committed to uplifting the people through responsive and inclusive representation,” the statement added.

It also highlighted Isa’s track record in community development and philanthropy as key credentials supporting his aspiration.

Reaffirming loyalty to party leadership, the statement noted that Isa would draw from the guidance and mentorship of APC leaders in navigating the political process.

He expressed appreciation to the people of Sokoto East for their support, describing it as both humbling and encouraging.

The campaign also called for peaceful and issue-based politics, urging stakeholders to avoid divisive tendencies.

“We appeal to all supporters and party faithful to reject politics of bitterness and embrace issue-based engagement for the progress of Sokoto East, Sokoto State, and Nigeria,” the statement said.

Isa’s declaration is expected to influence political alignments in Sokoto East as parties begin early positioning ahead of the 2027 elections.