My Withdrawal From Senate Race Sacrifice for Youth Inclusion, Not Retirement – Tambuwal

By Omoyeni Ojeifo

Sen. Aminu Tambuwal has clarified that his exit from the 2027 senatorial race is a deliberate “political sacrifice,” rather than an act of cowardice.

He emphasized that the move is intended to create opportunities for younger politicians, maintaining that he remains fully engaged in national politics and party affairs.

“I am not leaving politics. I will remain very active and continue to work for the victory of our party at all levels,” he said.

On a political discourse on Channels TV, monitored by Persecondnews on Friday, Tambuwal explained that the decision followed wide consultations and was driven by the need to promote leadership renewal and deepen youth inclusion within the party structure.

He stressed that the move was also in recognition of long years in public service.

Reflecting on his career, Tambuwal noted that his political journey began in 2003 with his election to the House of Representatives, where he served six consecutive terms and rose to the position of Speaker.

This extensive track record—which includes two terms as Governor of Sokoto State and his current role in the 10th Senate—informed his decision to step aside.

“I have decided to allow my brother, Faruk Malami Yabo, to come in and take the ticket. It is part of leadership recruitment and giving younger people the opportunity to serve,” he pronounced

Tambuwal maintained that stepping aside from the senatorial race should not be interpreted as retirement from politics, insisting he remains committed to party engagements.

“We must not always be on the ballot. At some point, we must make sacrifices and allow others to lead,” he said.

The former Speaker dismissed suggestions that his withdrawal signals internal cracks within the opposition, insisting there is no crisis within the party over the development.

“There is no crack whatsoever. My decision was voluntary and based on the need to encourage younger leadership,” he noted.

He further responded to concerns over recent defections and realignments within opposition ranks, describing such movements as personal political choices rather than evidence of structural instability.

On allegations of poor stakeholder management within the coalition, Tambuwal argued that party processes remain inclusive, noting that key decisions are taken through consultation with major actors.

Looking ahead to 2027, he expressed confidence that the opposition remains competitive, predicting a tightly contested election in which Nigerians will ultimately determine the outcome at the polls.