Dr. Bakari’s Unity Message Hits Home; Over 51 Stakeholders Convene in Girei to Support His Governorship Bid

By Emmanuel Kwada

A stakeholders’ meeting convened today at the Presidential Lodge in Girei Local Government Area drew over 51 prominent figures to rally behind Dr. Salihu Bakari Girei’s aspiration for the governorship of Adamawa State in the 2027 elections.

The gathering, organized by Christopher Jallo, provided a platform for open discussions on Dr. Bakari’s unity-focused message and his bid to lead the state. Attendees expressed strong support, emphasizing his roots in Girei and his commitment to inclusive leadership.

One key speaker, Mr. Joseph Timothy, highlighted the impact of Dr. Bakari’s recent outreach. “Dr. Salihu Bakari’s message has reached us, and we want him to know that we welcome him,” Timothy said.

He noted that Dr. Bakari had openly acknowledged his tribal identity, describing himself as a “tribal man” from Girei, which resonated with locals who value representation from their own area.

Timothy urged Dr. Bakari to meet personally with community members to elaborate on his intentions. “Since he has decided to come clean and present himself to us, many of us did not know that he is a tribal person from Girei. Anything that concerns him concerns us, and anything that concerns us concerns him,” he added.

He also referenced a light-hearted suggestion for Dr. Bakari to consult Alhaji Abba about “Alhaji Burundi,” his elder brother, as a way to deepen understanding and connections.

Other stakeholders praised Dr. Bakari’s approach. One participant described following his path as a “good and cheerful thing,” predicting that supporters would encounter responsible leaders.

“Anyone who loves their people is a good person,” the speaker said, noting how Dr. Bakari has united individuals from different political parties without forcing allegiance.

“You have united all of them, and it is their choice to follow whomever they wish. As long as they follow your ways, they will meet responsible leaders.”

The meeting reflected growing grassroots momentum for Dr. Bakari, a former commissioner, education administrator, and current senior official at the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund).

Known for his extensive experience in education and public service, he has been positioning himself as a unifying figure capable of transforming Adamawa into a more secure, educated, and prosperous state.

Participants expressed hope that incumbent Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri would support Dr. Bakari’s candidacy or align with his vision.

One speaker conveyed a direct message from Dr. Bakari: “I’m also a tribal man. I do not have any party interest and do not want to be involved in party crises. I am contesting for the Governorship position.” He reportedly plans to return for a larger engagement to personally explain his agenda.

The emphasis on hometown pride was clear: “One important thing about Dr. Salihu Girei is that he is from Girei, and everyone else naturally wishes to have a leader from their own hometown. For him, not electing someone from his hometown would be a great disgrace”, one speaker said.

The fruitful meeting underscored Dr. Bakari’s growing appeal in his home base and beyond, as political realignments intensify ahead of 2027. Supporters view his bid as a chance to foster unity and development across Adamawa State.