Months of sustained pressure from youths, women groups and community leaders have finally pushed grassroots politician and philanthropist, Emmanuel Tabat Khoza, into the race for the House of Representatives ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Khoza, who has been at the centre of growing political consultations across the constituency, formally declared his intention to contest over the weekend, saying he could no longer ignore repeated calls from constituents urging him to seek the mandate to represent them at the National Assembly.
Addressing a crowd of supporters at his country home, the aspirant said the decision followed extensive consultations, prayers and deep reflection with family members, political associates and traditional leaders.
“I have heard you clearly. Your voices have been loud, consistent and sincere. Today, I am bowing to your call. By the grace of God, I will contest for the House of Representatives in 2027,” he said.
Khoza said the decision was driven by what he described as the urgent need for effective and people-centred representation, stressing that the constituency deserves a voice that understands its challenges and is prepared to fight for its interests at the federal level.
Findings by our correspondent indicate that the declaration followed a series of town hall meetings and ward-level consultations across the constituency, where groups openly urged him to join the race.
Sources close to his political camp said consultations are already ongoing within the All Progressives Congress (APC), with meetings held with ward officials, local government party executives, youth and women leaders, religious figures and traditional institutions.
Political observers say the early move signals a well-structured campaign strategy aimed at building broad support ahead of the party primaries.
His entry into the contest has reportedly sparked fresh political momentum within the constituency, with supporters describing him as a bridge between the older political bloc and the younger generation.
A women leader in the area, Mrs Rahab Danjuma, said Khoza’s track record of community interventions, including support for widows, school fee assistance for indigent students and empowerment of rural farmers, has endeared him to many residents.
“He has always been accessible to the people even without holding office. That is why many of us believe he will do even more if given the mandate,” she said.
Similarly, youth leader, Comrade Bitrus Yakubu, said the agitation for Khoza’s candidacy began as communities grappled with poor federal infrastructure, unemployment and security concerns.
“We need someone who understands our terrain and can attract projects and opportunities to our people. That is why many communities kept pressing him to run,” he said.
During consultations with stakeholders, Khoza was said to have promised an issue-based campaign focused on education, healthcare, rural roads, job creation and peacebuilding.
He also pledged to respect internal party processes and promote unity, insisting that his ambition is driven by service rather than personal interest.
With consultations expanding to market associations, artisan groups, students and persons with disabilities, analysts believe his early declaration may give him a strategic advantage as the 2027 contest gathers momentum.