I have read Mohammed Ibrahim Yaba’s article, “Challenges for Uba Sani over new running mate,” which appeared in the Daily Trust of Thursday, 10 Sep 2026, and while it sought to highlight the political implications of Governor Uba Sani’s choice of Jerry Adams as his running mate, I believe the analysis places too much emphasis on ethnic arithmetic and religious balancing while paying insufficient attention to competence, leadership experience, and the broader political realities of Kaduna State
Therefore, I have taken his take with a complete grain of salt; the reason for that will be seen shortly
Firstly, some commentators’ argument that the APC will suffer in Northern Kaduna because of the choice of Jerry Adams as Uba Sani’s running mate rests largely on one assumption: that the religious configuration of a political ticket remains the dominant factor motivating voters in Kaduna
In my view, the argument’s central weakness is assuming that electoral success depends primarily on demographic calculations While ethnicity and religion remain important factors in Nigerian politics, they are not the only considerations that influence voters. Increasingly, citizens are paying attention to leadership capacity, inclusiveness, public service record, and the ability of candidates to address pressing governance challenges.
Governor Uba Sani’s selection of Jerry Adams should, therefore, be viewed within the broader context of building a ticket that reflects the diversity of Kaduna State Kaduna remains one of Nigeria’s most culturally and religiously diverse states, and its long-term stability depends on leaders who can foster inclusion and strengthen a sense of belonging among all segments of society. By choosing a Christian from Southern Kaduna, the governor has sent a clear signal that representation and inclusiveness remain important values within the governing party.
The article suggests that some constituencies may be uncomfortable with the departure from the previous Muslim-Muslim arrangement I respectfully disagree with the notion that political viability should be measured by the preservation of any particular religious formula. Leadership should be judged by character, competence, and commitment to public service. Indeed, some of the voices quoted in the article acknowledge that justice, fairness, and capacity are ultimately more important than religious identity in determining suitability for public office.
More importantly, I believe the discussion surrounding Jerry Adams has overlooked the substantial public service experience he brings to the ticket Before emerging as Governor Uba Sani’s running mate, Adams served in senior leadership positions at the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS), including Executive Director of Corporate Services and later Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. And there is no doubt that KADIRS under his leadership pursued reforms focused on transparency, efficiency, innovation, improved taxpayer services, and strengthened revenue administration. These reforms he has undertaken were aimed at enhancing taxpayer confidence and supporting sustainable development through effective revenue management.
Beyond his experience at KADIRS, Jerry Adams brings more than three decades of professional experience spanning public administration, taxation, accounting, corporate management, and institutional leadership
Secondly, the article also appears to place considerable emphasis on his ethnic background, suggesting that his Moroa heritage may limit his political appeal within Southern Kaduna I find this argument unconvincing. Political relevance is not determined solely by the size of an ethnic group. Across Nigeria, numerous leaders have built broad coalitions and secured widespread support because voters believed in their leadership qualities rather than their ethnic identity. In fact, the article itself acknowledges that Jerry Adams possesses political capital and appeal across different age groups in Southern Kaduna. That observation deserves greater attention because it suggests that his support extends beyond narrow ethnic considerations.
History also offers useful lessons Southern Kaduna voters have repeatedly demonstrated a willingness to support candidates from diverse backgrounds when they believe such individuals can effectively represent their interests and advance the region’s development aspirations. The political success of previous leaders from different communities illustrates that electoral acceptance in Southern Kaduna has never been determined exclusively by ethnic size or religious affiliation. To suggest otherwise risks oversimplifying a politically sophisticated electorate.
I am equally persuaded that Adams’ emergence presents strategic opportunities for the APC Southern Kaduna has traditionally been one of the state’s most competitive political zones. By presenting a ticket that reflects both regional and religious diversity, the APC is arguably better positioned to engage communities that may previously have felt underrepresented within the party structure. Whether this ultimately translates into electoral gains will depend on many factors, but it is a rational political strategy rather than the liability some critics portray.
Furthermore, we are all witnesses to how Jerry Adams maintained visible engagement with communities across Southern Kaduna through humanitarian and social support initiatives Reports have highlighted outreach efforts directed at widows, vulnerable groups, and interfaith communities. While such activities should not be overstated or viewed as substitutes for public policy, they contribute to a broader image of a leader who remains connected to grassroots concerns and community development.
At a time when Kaduna residents are increasingly concerned about security, economic opportunities, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social cohesion, I believe many voters will ultimately assess candidates on their ability to contribute meaningfully to governance The issues confronting Kaduna State are too important to be reduced solely to questions of ethnicity and religion. People of Kaduna are likely to ask whether a candidate possesses the experience, temperament, and administrative competence required to support effective governance. Governor Uba Sani ticked all the boxes, and picking Jerry only solidified and cemented the APC success in Kaduna State
Maigamo is a former Special Assistant, Public Affairs in Kaduna State Government