Governorship candidates of opposition political parties in Kaduna State have dismissed reports claiming they endorsed a consensus candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The candidates described the circulating social media report as false, misleading and mischievous, urging members of the public to disregard the claim.
Yusuf Idris, spokesperson for the Kaduna State governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Usman Shehu Bawa, popularly known as ABG, issued the clarification in a statement on Tuesday.
Idris explained that the report emerged after a meeting of governorship candidates from different opposition parties in the state.
According to him, the meeting was convened to reaffirm their commitment to political freedom, inclusion and a credible electoral process ahead of the 2027 elections.
He said discussions at the meeting focused on concerns over what the candidates described as the persecution of opposition figures and the shrinking space for alternative political voices under the present administration.
The opposition politicians also emphasised the need to protect fundamental rights, promote political pluralism and guarantee a level playing field for all parties participating in the forthcoming elections.
They maintained that no government should use state power to intimidate political opponents, restrict legitimate political activities or undermine the constitutional right of citizens to freely elect their leaders.
The candidates further pledged to strengthen cooperation among opposition parties, encourage peaceful political engagement and work towards ensuring that the 2027 elections are free, fair, transparent and reflective of the wishes of Kaduna residents.
However, the statement stressed that neither Bawa nor any of the other governorship candidates indicated an intention to endorse another aspirant during or after the meeting.
The candidates therefore urged the public to disregard the report and called on those circulating the claim to stop spreading misinformation.
They reiterated their commitment to issue-based political engagement and a credible electoral process as Kaduna State prepares for the 2027 governorship election.
Support InfoStride News' Credible Journalism: Only credible journalism can guarantee a fair, accountable and transparent society, including democracy and government. It involves a lot of efforts and money. We need your support. Click here to Donate