The group described Ashiru as the most experienced and widely accepted aspirant among those currently jostling for the party’s ticket, insisting that he possesses the political structure and grassroots appeal needed to challenge the ruling APC in the state.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Kaduna, Chairman of the forum, Yusuf Gidan Hadi, said the ADC must field a candidate with proven political strength and statewide acceptability rather than “experimental politicians.”
According to him, elections are won through experience, grassroots connection, political structure and public acceptance, qualities he said Ashiru has demonstrated over the years.
“Rt. Hon. Isa Ashiru is not a newcomer in Kaduna politics. He served as a member of the Kaduna State House of Assembly and later as a member of the House of Representatives. Beyond that, he has contested for the governorship of Kaduna State three times, making him one of the most experienced opposition figures in the state today,” the statement said.
The forum further noted that Ashiru enjoys an existing political network across the 23 local government areas of the state, with loyal supporters and mobilizers who remain active.
It added that Ashiru’s performance in the 2023 governorship election against Governor Uba Sani further strengthened his political credentials.
“Many political observers still believe that Isa Ashiru performed exceptionally well during the 2023 gubernatorial election against Senator Uba Sani. Some even maintain that the election outcome did not truly reflect the wishes of many Kaduna voters,” the group stated.
The forum also pointed to the evolving political dynamics in Kaduna State, particularly the perceived rift between former Governor Nasir El-Rufai and Governor Uba Sani, as a development capable of reshaping the political landscape ahead of 2027.
“The current political dynamics clearly show that former Governor Nasir El-Rufai is no longer politically aligned with Governor Uba Sani, but appears closer to opposition forces where Ashiru is playing a leading role. This development changes the equation ahead of 2027 and strengthens the chances of ADC if the party presents its strongest candidate,” the statement added.
