2027: Gov Radda Rejects VP Ambition Rumours, Focuses on Katsina Mandate
KATSINA, NIGERIA – Amid swirling political speculations ahead of the 2027 general elections, Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State has unequivocally denied having any ambition to run for Vice President. The governor made the clarification during an event organised by the Dutsin-Ma Development Forum, insisting his sole focus remains serving the people of Katsina.
The rebuttal came through a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Kaula-Mohammed, following increasing rumoursn amplified by political posters and social media chatter suggesting Radda’s involvement in a covert campaign for the vice presidency.
“I’ve seen posters and messages suggesting I’m pursuing another office,” Radda said. “Let me be clear: I sought your mandate to serve as Governor of Katsina State, and that is my only focus. I am not behind any campaign to contest elsewhere.”
Radda’s statement reflects a growing trend among Nigerian politicians to distance themselves from premature national campaign narratives often fueled by political interest groups and party factions ahead of the primaries. But analysts say such denials sometimes serve more as political posturing than a firm rejection of future ambitions.
During the Dutsin-Ma event, which included the distribution of 600 bags of maize and ₦5,000 each to victims of insecurity, Radda praised the compassion-driven initiative, calling it a reflection of “our shared values.” He reaffirmed his administration’s prioritization of security, pledging continued efforts to combat banditry and restore peace across the state.
“We will never make promises we can’t keep,” he added, “and our decisions will continue to be guided by sincerity and the fear of God.”
Radda’s remarks come at a time when Katsina, one of the states most affected by rural banditry and kidnapping, is under national scrutiny for its security situation. While the governor’s supporters commend his efforts, critics argue that real transformation remains sluggish amid persistent violence in the hinterlands.
Meanwhile, the political undertone of the event was impossible to miss. Multiple local leaders, including the Chairman of Dutsin-Ma Local Government, Alhaji Kabir Abdussalam-Shema, used the platform to publicly endorse Radda for a second term.
“We believe in continuity because we have seen tangible results,” said Abdussalam-Shema, echoing a sentiment shared by several others at the forum.
In response, Radda expressed gratitude but offered a cautious reply. “If it is the will of Almighty Allah and good for the people, it shall be. But if not, I pray for Allah to guide us to something even better.”
Observers say Radda’s modest tone may be calculated, aiming to strike a balance between humility and political ambition, especially as intra-party calculations begin ahead of the 2027 elections.
In a separate development, Radda announced the planned extension of the waterway project from Dutsin-Ma to Charanchi and surrounding communities an initiative welcomed by locals but still facing questions over timelines and funding.
While the governor continues to project an image of service and integrity, political watchers will be keeping a close eye on his moves, especially in the months leading up to party primaries. For now, he insists, “Katsina is my only mandate.” Whether that remains so beyond 2027 is a question only time and politics will answer.
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2027: Gov Radda Rejects VP Ambition Rumours, Focuses on Katsina Mandate