As the race for political leadership intensifies, the seat representing Abadam, Guzamala, Kukawa, and Mobbar Federal Constituency is shaping up to be one of the most competitive and closely watched.
With growing interest from young aspirants and grassroots politicians, the contest is further influenced by the power dynamics between Governor Babagana Umara Zulum and Vice President Kashim Shettima.
Among those reportedly eyeing the seat are Engr. Adam Bababe, Hon. Karta Maina Maaji, Hon. Habib Kekeno, Hon. Babagoni Kareto, Rt. Hon. Abdulkareem Lawan, Hon. Isa Lawan Kangar, and the incumbent, Rt. Hon. Bukar Gana Kareto.
Following his resignation as BOGIS Executive Secretary, Engr. Bababe is widely believed to have made a strategic move, with many observers suggesting he would not have stepped down without reaching an understanding with Governor Zulum—either to position himself as a successor or to contest for the federal constituency seat. Some analysts even view him as a strong frontrunner.
In the case of Hon. Karta Maina Maaji, insiders point to an alleged prior agreement between Governor Zulum and Karta’s father—a former House of Representatives member, Senator, and Governor. According to this claim, during the 2019 elections, support was secured on the condition that Karta would serve a single term in the State Assembly before being backed for the federal seat.
Hon. Habib Kekeno, a seasoned grassroots politician with multiple tenures as councillor, vice chairman, and chairman of Kukawa, has also declared his intention. His close ties to Vice President Shettima have led many to believe his ambition has strong backing.
Meanwhile, some stakeholders are advocating for more experienced figures such as Rt. Hon. Abdulkareem Lawan, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, as recognition for his service. Though he has not formally declared interest, speculation persists, especially amid rumors that the governor may overhaul the State Assembly.
Similarly, Hon. Isa Lawan Kangar, who served one term from 2011 to 2015 with notable achievements, is being urged by supporters across the constituency to heed calls to contest, citing his grassroots appeal and track record.
Babagoni Umar Kareto, a youth-focused humanitarian and son of the late Alhaji Umar Kareto, has long shown interest in the seat but reportedly held back due to the incumbency of his uncle.
The Chairman of Guzamala, who contested in 2023, remains a potential contender, though opinions differ on whether he will re-enter the race.
As for the incumbent, Rt. Hon. Bukar Gana Kareto, while some claim he has indicated he may not seek re-election, others suggest he is quietly mobilizing to retain his position.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, all eyes remain on who will ultimately emerge as the candidate—and eventual winner—of this highly coveted seat.