The Garki/Babura Federal Constituency By-Election: A Two-Horse Race
The political landscape of Jigawa State is gearing up for a crucial by-election in the Garki/Babura Federal Constituency, scheduled for August 16, 2025. This by-election was necessitated by the unfortunate demise of the incumbent representative, Isa Dogon Yaro, on May 9, 2024. Two major political parties, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC), have completed their primary elections to choose their respective flag bearers for this contest. The stage is now set for a potentially closely contested race, with both parties eager to secure the vacant seat in the House of Representatives.
The NNPP held its primary election at its local government secretariat in Babura, where Salisu Sabo emerged as the party’s candidate. Sabo secured his victory unopposed, garnering all 114 votes cast by the delegates. In his acceptance speech, Sabo expressed his commitment to collaborating with party members and the constituents to enhance secondary education within the constituency. He emphasized the importance of voters selecting candidates based on merit and their ability to address their needs effectively.
Meanwhile, the APC conducted its primary election at the Duplex in Babura, with Rabiu Garki emerging victorious. Garki received a unanimous vote of confidence, securing all 110 votes cast by delegates representing the 22 wards of the constituency. The Chairman of the APC Primary Election Committee, Ismaila Gadaka, lauded the peaceful, free, and fair conduct of the election. In his acceptance speech, Garki expressed gratitude to Governor Umar Namadi, party leaders, and members for their support. He pledged to prioritize youth employment and job creation if elected, aiming to improve the livelihoods of his constituents.
The NNPP’s Salisu Sabo and the APC’s Rabiu Garki bring distinct priorities and potential strengths to the table. Sabo’s focus on secondary education underscores the importance of investing in human capital and empowering the younger generation with the tools to succeed. Garki’s emphasis on youth employment and job creation addresses the immediate economic concerns of the constituency, aiming to alleviate unemployment and boost economic opportunities for the local population.
Both parties are keenly aware of the importance of connecting with the electorate and earning their trust. They recognize that the Garki/Babura constituency is a vital battleground and are prepared to engage in a robust campaign to secure the support of the voters. The APC, despite expressing confidence in their victory, plans to actively campaign across all 22 political wards of the constituency. Their message will center on aligning their candidate’s vision with the APC manifesto and the broader agenda of Governor Umar Namadi’s administration. This strategy aims to demonstrate a unified front and showcase the potential benefits of electing an APC representative. The NNPP, with its candidate’s focus on education, will likely also strive to connect with the electorate on grassroots issues and demonstrate a commitment to addressing the needs of the constituency.
The by-election in Garki/Babura Federal Constituency is shaping up to be more than just a contest for a single seat in the House of Representatives – it represents a crucial opportunity for the constituents to choose the direction they envision for their future. Will they opt for the NNPP’s focus on educational advancement, or will they gravitate towards the APC’s promise of economic empowerment? The answer lies with the electorate, who will ultimately determine the outcome of this closely watched political race. The period leading up to the election will be a crucial time for both parties to articulate their vision, connect with the voters, and persuade them that their respective candidates are best suited to represent the interests of the Garki/Babura Federal Constituency in the National Assembly.
