By our reporter
Former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) official and community development advocate, Muhammad Suwidi Yusha’u Danladin Gumel, has declared his intention to contest for the Jigawa North-West Senatorial seat under the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), pledging to offer accountable, inclusive and people-centred representation.
Speaking on his background, Suwidi said he was born in 1989 in Danladin Gumel, now in Sule Tankarkar Local Government Area of Jigawa State, into a family renowned for Islamic scholarship and Qur’anic education.
He explained that his upbringing, rooted in the teachings of the Holy Qur’an, shaped his character and commitment to public service. Alongside his Islamic education, he obtained bachelor’s degrees in Economics and Banking and Accounting, as well as professional certifications in Financial Crime Investigation, Fraud Prevention and Detection, and Risk and Internal Control Management.
Suwidi said his career spanned teaching, microfinance banking and eight years of service at the Central Bank of Nigeria before voluntarily retiring to pursue business and community development.
He noted that he also founded the United Society for Human Development (USHD), a registered humanitarian organisation dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable communities through development initiatives.
Explaining his decision to venture into politics, the Senate hopeful said it followed years of writing and speaking on issues affecting Northern Nigeria, including insecurity, economic hardship, governance and leadership.
According to him, respected religious scholars, traditional rulers, elders and community leaders encouraged him to seek elective office after recognising his commitment to public service.
“I did not join politics in search of power or personal wealth. I entered politics after broad consultations and with the blessings of my parents, scholars, elders and community leaders because I believe leadership is a trust,” he said.
Suwidi said he chose the Allied Peoples Movement after carefully evaluating different political parties, describing the APM as a platform committed to discipline, peaceful politics and democratic values.
While expressing respect for all political parties, he stressed that political competition should strengthen democracy rather than divide the people.
If elected to the Senate, Suwidi pledged to prioritise unity among elected officials from Jigawa State regardless of party affiliation, saying collaboration was essential to advancing education, healthcare, agriculture, security, infrastructure and economic development.
He also promised to establish constituency liaison offices in each of the 12 local government areas of Jigawa North-West to ensure continuous engagement with constituents.
According to him, the offices will receive public complaints and suggestions, monitor constituency projects, identify local challenges and strengthen communication between citizens and their elected representative.
He further pledged to maintain regular consultations with constituents to ensure that legislative decisions reflect the aspirations and needs of the people.
Addressing voters, Suwidi urged residents of Jigawa State to place competence, integrity and vision above material inducements when electing leaders.
He encouraged eligible citizens to participate actively in elections and protect the sanctity of their votes.
“Leadership is not about popularity. It is about ability, integrity and responsibility,” he said.
He also appealed to traditional rulers, religious scholars and community leaders to continue promoting credible leadership by supporting individuals of proven character and competence.
Suwidi maintained that his Islamic upbringing, educational qualifications, professional experience and years of community service had prepared him for effective representation in the National Assembly.
He concluded by calling for unity and collective commitment to the development of Jigawa State, saying the ultimate objective should be the progress, dignity and prosperity of the people rather than personal political ambition.
