Zaki Steps Down As Commissioner, Prepares for Senate Seat

Bauchi State commissioner for Water Resources, Abdulrazak Nuhu Zaki, has stepped down from his position with immediate effect to prepare for the Bauchi Central Senatorial race in the 2027 general elections.

Zaki’s resignation, dated March 30 and addressed to Governor Bala Mohammed, was in compliance with the directive of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which mandates political appointees seeking elective offices to vacate their positions.

In the letter sighted by Our Correspondent, the former commissioner said his decision was guided by the need to align with electoral regulations and pursue his ambition to represent Bauchi Central in the Senate.

“This decision is to enable me to contest for the Senate in Bauchi Central Zone as per INEC guidelines,” he stated.

Zaki, who previously served as a member of the House of Representatives for Ningi/Warji Federal Constituency from 2015 to 2019, expressed gratitude to Governor Mohammed for the opportunity to serve in various capacities within the State Executive Council (SEC).

He also reaffirmed his loyalty to the governor and continued support for the administration’s policies, even as he exited the cabinet to focus on his senatorial bid.

Our correspondent reports that Zaki’s resignation marked the first major political move in Bauchi State ahead of the 2027 elections, signalling the start of what is expected to be a competitive race for the Bauchi Central seat.

Niger South Senator Jiya Defects To APC

Senator Peter Jiya, representing Niger South, has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing internal disputes within his former party.

The defection was conveyed in a letter addressed to the Senate President Godswill Akpabio and read during plenary yesterday.

In the letter, Jiya stated that he had resigned from the PDP with effect from March 10.

“I wish to notify you and the Senate that I have resigned my membership of the Peoples Democratic Party effective today,” the letter read.

Explaining his decision, the lawmaker pointed to unresolved internal conflicts within the party.

“This action is premised on quarrels and irreconcilable divisions within the party,” he said.

Jiya further announced his decision to continue his political career under the APC.

“Also, kindly take further notice that effective today, I have decided to join and be associated with the All Progressives Congress (APC) to continue my political career,” he added.