Kanuri group backs Gubio, Wali, urges peaceful elections
By Ahmed Kaigama
The Kufutilo Kanuri Development Association has reaffirmed its support for Engr. Alhaji Mustapha Gubio as its preferred governorship candidate in Borno and Alhaji Baba Mallam Wali, mni, in Yobe State, while urging peaceful and credible elections.
The President of the association worldwide, Alhaji Zanna Ali Usman Ahmad, made the position known at a press briefing, saying the endorsement was based on what the organisation considered to be the best interests of the people.
Usman Ahmad said the association was a non-partisan civil organisation and that its decision followed extensive consultations with members and key stakeholders across Borno and Yobe.
He explained that the association considered five major criteria before arriving at the decision, including continuity in peace-building, infrastructure and human capital development.
According to him, the association also seeks leaders who understand the challenges and aspirations of the people and possess the administrative experience and capacity to provide practical solutions.
He said economic development was another major consideration, stressing the need for greater investment in entrepreneurship, youth and women empowerment, industrialisation and the creation of local and international trade opportunities for small and medium-scale enterprises.
The president added that respect for traditional institutions and the preservation of the Kanuri people’s cultural heritage were also important factors in selecting the candidates.
“After carefully applying these five selection criteria, Kufutilo Kanuri Development Association reached a unanimous decision to support Engr. Alhaji Mustapha Gubio for Governor of Borno State and Alhaji Baba Mallam Wali, mni, for Governor of Yobe State,” he said.
He said the association would make concerted efforts towards ensuring victory for Gubio and Wali, alongside their respective running mates.
Usman Ahmad, however, stressed that the endorsement should not be interpreted as hostility towards other candidates or political parties, noting that all contestants had constitutional rights to seek the mandate of the people.
He urged members, supporters and all eligible voters to exercise their civic responsibilities peacefully, responsibly and in accordance with the law.
The association also prayed for peaceful, credible and successful elections in Borno and Yobe, while disclosing that consultations were ongoing among its chapters nationwide on the forthcoming presidential election.
NAN
