Across markets, mosques, universities, and community meetings, the clamour is no longer just about changing faces. It is about changing the way the state is governed. Citizens are calling for a governor who is selfless, accountable, and genuinely committed to the welfare of the people.
The demand for new leadership comes at a time when Zamfara continues to battle insecurity, poverty, and poor service delivery. For many residents, the current challenges have exposed gaps in governance that cannot be ignored any longer.
“The surest way out of the confusion of insecurity that Zamfara is facing is to elect leaders with the fear of God, leaders with love for the state, and leaders whose main concern will be the wellbeing of all citizens,” said a community leader during a town hall meeting in Gusau last week. The sentiment has since gone viral across social media and radio programs in the state.
Citizens argue that political, ethnic, and personal interests have for too long overshadowed the collective good of Zamfara people. They say 2027 presents an opportunity to correct that.
Many of those speaking out are also reminding political office holders of their constitutional responsibilities.
Since 1999, Section 13 and Section 14 (1)(2)(a)(b)(c)(3)(4) of Chapter II of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria have made it clear: sovereignty belongs to the people. Government derives all its powers and authority from the people. And the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.
“In simple terms, the people are supposed to be the CEOs,” explained a civil society advocate in Zamfara. “We hire our leaders, and we have the right to fire them if they fail us. But for years, many of those we elected have acted like the government belongs to them.”
The frustration is compounded by concerns over how state resources are being managed.
According to data from the Federation Account Allocation Committee, Zamfara State receives an average of about ₦28 billion monthly from federal allocation. Yet, residents say they are not seeing the impact.
“Where is the money going?” asked a teacher in Talata Mafara. “Workers’ salaries are denied. There is no support for students in tertiary institutions. Farmers are struggling without inputs. Small business owners are dying. If we are getting this amount every month, why is life getting harder?”
Critics also point to violations of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, RMAFC, guidelines under Chapter V, Sections 70 and 84 (1)(2)(3)(4). They accuse some officials of treating public funds as “mere pittance” compared to the overall budget, while ordinary citizens continue to suffer.
“These are the traits of bad leadership that have plagued us for years,” said another resident. “And it happened because, in the past, we made the mistake of electing people already accused of economic and financial crimes by agencies like the EFCC.”
Religious and community leaders are also weighing in, reminding politicians that leadership is a trust.
“Government is a gift from Allah (S.W.A). He gives it to whoever He wills, at the time He wills,” said an Islamic scholar during Friday prayers. “But that does not mean we should not hold ourselves accountable for the choices we make. If we elect people who are not qualified, we will all bear the consequences.”
The scholar emphasized that true leadership means management and care for people, not the exploitation of office for personal gain.
“Those who served with honesty in the past, whether at local, state, or federal level, showed that it is possible to lead without stealing public money. That is the kind of leadership Zamfara needs now.”
Spotlight On Engineer Ibrahim Shehu Gusau
Amid the calls for change, one name is increasingly coming up in political discussions: Engineer Ibrahim Shehu Gusau, the PDP governorship hopeful.
Engineer Gusau previously represented Gusau/Tsafe Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. Supporters point to his record during that time as evidence of what he can do as governor.
“After he completed his tenure, EFCC or ICPC never invited him for questioning,” said a youth leader. “What people remember him for are the projects and empowerment programs he did for the people. No scandal. No accusations of embezzlement.”
Advocates describe him as someone who understands governance, having worked in both the legislature and in engineering. They say he meets the criteria many Zamfara people are now demanding: integrity, experience, and commitment to public service.
“If he becomes governor in 2027, it will not be a surprise,” said a PDP chieftain. “Because leadership is about guiding people in the right direction, and Engineer Ibrahim Shehu has shown he can do that.”
As 2027 approaches, the message from Zamfara voters is becoming clearer: Security First - A government that prioritizes ending banditry and protecting communities. Welfare and Jobs - Support for workers, students, farmers, and small businesses. Transparency - Leaders who can account for the ₦28 billion monthly allocation and other resources. Integrity - No more leaders with pending corruption cases.
“We are tired of excuses,” said a women’s group leader in Anka. “We want a governor who will see Zamfara people as the real bosses. A governor who will work for us, not for himself.”
Political analysts say the next years will be critical if Dauda Lawal still governing the state. With insecurity still a major issue and economic hardship biting hard, voters are expected to be more intentional with their choices.
The Constitution gives the power to the people. The question now is whether Zamfara people will use that power in 2027 to elect a leader who will put the state and its citizens first.
For now, the conversation continues in villages, markets, and online platforms. One thing is certain: Zamfara is looking for a governor with love for the state, with integrity, and with the courage to serve.
