Adamawa 2027: Open Lines, Deep Policies — Why Supporters Say Dr. Bakari Girei Stands Out in Crowded Race

By Tgnews Reporter

As political manoeuvring gains momentum ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Adamawa State, supporters of Dr. Salihu Bakari Girei are positioning him as a frontrunner who combines policy substance with uncommon public accessibility in an increasingly competitive field.

Dr. Girei, a seasoned educationist, academic administrator and former Chairman of the Adamawa State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), is drawing attention for his willingness to engage directly with the public.

While some aspirants reportedly maintain restricted communication channels — with phone lines often unreachable or set to block unknown callers — Girei’s mobile number remains openly available, according to his backers.

They describe this as a reflection of genuine openness and a commitment to responsive governance.

“His readiness to be contacted by ordinary citizens sets him apart,” a supporter said. “It signals that he is not detached from the people he seeks to serve.”

Community leaders also highlight Girei’s track record in bridging divides in Adamawa’s religiously and ethnically diverse landscape. His history of cross-faith engagement is seen as a critical asset for fostering cohesion and carrying multiple constituencies forward at a time when unity remains a major challenge.

Policy watchers have given favourable reviews to Girei’s emerging manifesto, praising its detailed and structured approach.

The document reportedly outlines clear priorities in key sectors including education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and security — areas where critics say many other aspirants have offered only broad generalities without coherent programmes.

Girei’s calm and measured public demeanour has further distinguished him. He has maintained consistent visibility in traditional media outlets, granting interviews and fielding questions in ways that demonstrate confidence and preparedness for scrutiny.

This contrasts with what some observers describe as a reluctance by certain contenders to engage sustainedly with mainstream platforms that adhere to editorial standards and verification processes.

A senior broadcaster remarked: “Any politician with nothing to hide will engage the mainstream media.” Social media, while powerful for mobilisation, is often viewed as an environment where claims can circulate with less accountability.

The APC primary race in Adamawa remains fluid, with several notable figures already signalling interest, including Comrade Mustapha Salihu, Engr. Ahmed Tijjani Galadima Aminu, Dr Maurice Vunobulki, and others. Alliances are still forming, and the contest is expected to intensify in the coming months.

Nevertheless, Girei’s supporters argue that the combination of accessibility, cross-cutting appeal, policy depth, and media engagement currently places him as “first among equals” in the evolving political landscape.

As the countdown to 2027 continues, many in Adamawa are watching closely to see whether these attributes will translate into broader party and public support for the APC’s bid to reclaim the state from the PDP.

More developments are expected as declarations and consultations deepen.