By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Labour Party senatorial candidate for Kaduna South in the 2023 general elections, Engr. Michael Auta, has thrown his weight behind former Senator Danjuma La’ah for a return to the Senate.

Auta, who had earlier indicated interest in the senatorial race, announced his decision to step down in support of La’ah during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Kafanchan,
headquarters of Southern Kaduna.

The meeting drew party leaders, support groups, including Ward-2-Ward Frontiers, women groups, and members of the media team.

La’ah, who represented Kaduna South Senatorial District between 2015 and 2023, is seeking to return to the National Assembly, citing persistent calls from constituents urging him to recontest.

Speaking at the gathering, Auta said his decision was informed by the need to consolidate on the achievements recorded during La’ah’s previous tenure. He commended the former lawmaker for attracting federal projects to the district and expressed confidence in his capacity to further advance development in Southern Kaduna.

He cautioned the electorate against vote trading, urging them to support credible leaders capable of delivering sustainable progress.

Auta, however, noted that he would reconsider his ambition should La’ah opt out of the race, stressing that no amount of inducement would deter him from advocating for the region’s development.

In his remarks, La’ah said his aspiration is driven by a desire to provide experienced and selfless leadership to address the challenges confronting Southern Kaduna. He emphasized the importance of unity, noting that collective action remains key to achieving meaningful development in the area.

The former senator added that his previous experience in the National Assembly has equipped him with the requisite knowledge and capacity for effective representation, urging the electorate to assess candidates based on track record, competence, and commitment to service.

The meeting also focused on strengthening party unity and mobilizing support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, in line with the APC’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Highlight of the event was the presentation of awards of excellence to La’ah by two women political groups in recognition of his contributions to the development of Southern Kaduna.