The immediate past Secretary to the Bauchi State Government, Ibrahim Kashim, has defected to the Social Democratic Party and declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in the state.
Kashim, who resigned from the administration of Governor Bala Mohammed in December 2024 following a directive from the governor, also left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in July 2025.
He disclosed his defection and ambition on Sunday during a media chat with journalists in Bauchi.
The former SSG said his decision to join the governorship race was informed by his concern over underdevelopment in key sectors such as agriculture, education, and poverty alleviation.
According to him, his experience in public service has equipped him with the knowledge required to drive reforms that would improve governance and living standards.
Responding to questions on what he would do differently if elected, Kashim emphasised the need for structured reforms anchored in laws rather than arbitrary decisions.
“Reform in a society and in governance has to be done not on a whimsical basis. It has to be guided by laws and proper processes,” he said.
He added that while it may not be possible to address all challenges at once, deliberate and consistent policies could significantly improve the state.
On his choice of the SDP as his political platform, Kashim described the party as one with a strong historical background, noting that its relevance remains intact despite limited electoral success in recent times.
“The SDP is an old party. It was the platform on which Moshood Abiola won the election. The fact that it has not produced many elected candidates in recent times does not mean it lacks structure,” he said.
Kashim stated that the party has established structures across the state, including at the ward, local government, and state levels, adding that members have been working to strengthen its grassroots presence.
He expressed confidence that voters in Bauchi State are independent-minded and tend to prioritise competence over party affiliation.
According to him, the state’s political history shows that candidates are elected based on credibility rather than party dominance.
Kashim also called on members of other political parties, including the PDP and the All Progressives Congress (APC), to join the SDP in what he described as a collective effort to reposition the state.
He maintained that his ambition is driven by a desire to promote development and improve the welfare of the people, expressing optimism that voters would support his candidacy in the 2027 election.