The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) launched its campaign for the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency by-election with a resounding declaration of intent to wrest control from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The campaign kick-off, a vibrant rally held in the constituency’s heart, attracted a massive turnout of supporters, signaling the PDP’s enduring strength in Kaduna State. Party leaders portrayed the contest as a grassroots movement for change, emphasizing the PDP’s commitment to addressing the needs of the people. The rally served as a powerful demonstration of the party’s mobilization capacity and its determination to reclaim the strategic federal seat. The by-election has thus set the stage for a fierce contest between the two major parties, each vying to secure the seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Nuhu Kayarda, the Kaduna State PDP Deputy Chairman, expressed unwavering confidence in the party’s ability to win the by-election with Barrister Esther Ashivelli Dawaki as their candidate. He dismissed the APC’s incumbency advantage, asserting that the will of the people would prevail. Kayarda emphasized Dawaki’s popularity and deep connection with the grassroots, highlighting her understanding of the constituency’s challenges and her commitment to advocating for the people. He framed the election not as a power struggle but as a fight for the people’s interests, asserting the PDP’s strong support base within the constituency. This confident declaration set the tone for the campaign, emphasizing the PDP’s focus on the needs and aspirations of the electorate.
Esther Dawaki, the PDP candidate, delivered a captivating speech that resonated with the crowd. A lawyer and youth advocate, Dawaki combined passion, empathy, and a powerful call to action. She committed to providing inclusive and accountable representation, focusing on education, youth development, and women’s empowerment. Positioning herself as a voice for the marginalized, she pledged to champion the aspirations of those who feel forgotten. By emphasizing her commitment to empowering women and youth, she tapped into the constituency’s desire for change and progress.
Dawaki further criticized the APC’s performance in the constituency, particularly its handling of insecurity and poverty. She highlighted the suffering endured by families in Chikun and Kajuru under the APC’s leadership, pointing to the persistent insecurity, poor infrastructure, and widespread unemployment. Dawaki contrasted the APC’s alleged failures with the PDP’s promise of new energy and fresh ideas, emphasizing a people-centered approach to governance. This critique of the ruling party served to solidify the PDP’s position as a viable alternative, offering hope for improved living conditions and a more responsive government.
The PDP outlined a clear legislative agenda focused on addressing the constituency’s pressing needs. The party pledged to tackle security challenges, improve access to quality education, and secure federal funding for long-overdue infrastructure projects. This comprehensive agenda showcased the PDP’s commitment to tangible solutions and tangible improvements in the lives of the constituents. By emphasizing concrete action, the PDP aimed to demonstrate its readiness to govern and deliver on its promises.
Mark Jacob, a former member of the House of Representatives and a prominent PDP figure, issued a stern warning against any attempts to manipulate the electoral process. He emphasized the party’s preparedness to ensure a free and fair election where every vote counts. Jacob further endorsed Dawaki’s competence, compassion, and commitment, portraying her as the ideal representative for the constituency. His warning served as a clear message of the PDP’s vigilance and its determination to protect the integrity of the electoral process. The strong words underscored the high stakes of the by-election and the importance of a transparent and credible outcome.
