By Sabiu Abdullahi
Mahmud Sadis Buba, widely known as Al-Ajabin Zazzau, has stepped down from the contest to represent Sabon Gari Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
His withdrawal followed weeks of controversy over allegations of age falsification and inconsistencies in documents linked to his candidacy.
Buba disclosed his decision in a letter addressed to the Kaduna State APC chairman. He also shared the letter on his verified Facebook page on Saturday.
“Please accept this letter as formal notification that I am withdrawing from the race for Sabon Gari Federal Constituency, House of Representatives, effective immediately,” he wrote.
He explained that the decision came after consultations with party leaders, family members and political associates. According to him, ongoing reconciliation efforts within the APC also influenced his action.
“This was not an easy decision. But it was hastened by the reconciliation efforts initiated by stakeholders and leaders of our party. Consequently, after extensive consultations with my family, political associates, and stakeholders within our great party, I have decided that this decision is in the best interest of the All Progressives Congress (APC),” he added.
Buba said party unity remained important ahead of the general elections. He noted that supporting a consensus candidate would strengthen the APC’s chances in the constituency.
“I believe that uniting behind a single candidate is paramount to our victory in the general election and for the continued progress of our constituency and state,” he stated.
The former aspirant also thanked Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani and the APC leadership for giving him the opportunity to participate in the party’s primaries. He described the experience as valuable and rewarding.
He maintained that his withdrawal should not be interpreted as a sign of weakness. He said the move reflected his commitment to unity within the party. Buba also pledged support for whoever eventually emerges as the APC candidate for the constituency.
He further appealed to his supporters to remain peaceful and support the party’s flagbearer.
Before his withdrawal, Buba had faced criticism over claims that he altered his age to satisfy the constitutional requirement for election into the House of Representatives.
The issue gained attention after his appearance before the APC screening committee in Abuja. Several social media users circulated documents that questioned his age and identity details.
Buba had earlier stated in interviews that he was born on August 2, 1995, and was qualified to contest the election. However, critics continued to challenge the claim, alleging discrepancies in some of his records.
Although he did not address the allegations directly in his withdrawal letter, political observers linked his exit to the controversy that surrounded his ambition.
As of the time of filing this report, APC stakeholders in Kaduna State had not issued an official statement on whether the withdrawal was connected to the allegations or part of wider reconciliation efforts within the party.
