‎’Sole Fulani Empowerment, Further Marginalization’: Why Non-Fulanis Fear Galadima Becoming Governor in 2027 — Barr. Danpullo Explains

By Tgnews Reporter

‎A legal practitioner and university lecturer, Barrister Benjamin Danpullo, has offered his perspective on the growing debate surrounding the emergence of Ahmed Tijani Galadima (TAG) as the governorship candidate of the ruling party, the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Adamawa State ahead of the 2027 general elections, attributing resistance to the move to fears of marginalization among minority ethnic groups and the Christian community.

‎Speaking on the issue, Danpullo, who has spent over 25 years in legal practice and served for two decades at the Adamawa State House of Assembly before moving into academia, said concerns being expressed by many residents should not be dismissed outright.

‎The Yola South indigene noted that there appears to be widespread apprehension among sections of the state’s population regarding what they perceive as an attempt to impose a candidate ahead of the governorship race.

‎According to him, many Christians and members of minority ethnic groups in Adamawa have continued to advocate for a Christian governor, arguing that several decades have passed since the administration of former governor Boni Haruna.

‎Danpullo said the resistance to TAG’s emergence stems largely from fears that a future administration under his leadership could reverse gains made under the current government and potentially favour a particular ethnic group which is Fulani.

‎He further argued that prevailing security challenges across parts of Nigeria, including banditry, kidnappings and communal attacks, have contributed to mistrust and heightened ethnic sensitivities among various communities.

‎”The concerns being expressed are rooted in fear and uncertainty. Many people believe that political power should be used to promote inclusion and equitable development across all segments of society,” he said.

‎The legal practitioner also alleged that previous administrations led by individuals from Fulani backgrounds were often perceived by some residents as disproportionately empowering members of their own ethnic group, a perception he said continues to influence public opinion.

‎While clarifying that he does not personally know TAG, Danpullo acknowledged having cordial relationships with some members of the politician’s family. He stressed, however, that his comments were based on sentiments he believes are widely shared across communities in the state.

‎According to him, there is concern among some residents that a change in leadership could undermine development initiatives undertaken by the administration of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, particularly in infrastructure and efforts aimed at expanding opportunities across the state’s diverse ethnic groups.

‎Despite these concerns, Danpullo called on political stakeholders and voters to focus on issues of governance, development and human capital advancement rather than ethnic or religious considerations.

‎He commended Governor Fintiri’s administration for executing major infrastructure projects, including roads, schools and flyovers, but argued that future governments must place greater emphasis on poverty reduction and economic empowerment.

‎”We need to begin lifting people out of poverty. Development should not be limited to physical infrastructure alone. Human capital development and economic empowerment must become priorities,” he said.

‎The lawyer expressed concern over living conditions in some urban communities within the state capital, citing areas such as Jambutu, Shinko and Urore-Jabbi, where he said many residents continue to face difficult socioeconomic conditions.

‎He urged whoever eventually emerges as governor in 2027 to prioritize inclusive governance, poverty alleviation and sustainable development for all communities across Adamawa State.

‎The comments come amid increasing political discussions and realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with various groups and stakeholders already positioning themselves for the contest.