2027: Why Ahmed Mahmoud Gumel’s Four Decades of Political Experience Are Powering His Senate Bid
_Supporters Say ADC Standard-Bearer’s Record in Governance, Public Service and Grassroots Politics Gives Him the Edge in the Jigawa Northwest Senatorial Race_
By Mati Ali
As political realignments gather momentum ahead of the 2027 General Election, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the Jigawa Northwest Senatorial District, HE Ahmed Mahmoud Gumel, popularly known as Kulkuli, is attracting growing attention among the electorate as a seasoned statesman whose more than four decades of political and governance experience have positioned him as a formidable contender for the Senate. Supporters maintain that his record in public service, administrative leadership and grassroots politics uniquely equips him to provide effective, accountable and people-centred representation.
With a political career spanning over 40 years, Ahmed Gumel is widely regarded by his supporters as one of the most experienced aspirants in the race. They argue that his extensive exposure to public administration, legislative politics, fiscal management and democratic governance has prepared him to effectively champion the interests of the people of Jigawa Northwest.
His political journey began in 1979 in the former Kano State when he contested the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) primary for the Federal House of Representatives seat in Lagos. Although he finished second to Alhaji Ado Ladi, the contest marked the beginning of a political career characterised by resilience, consistency and sustained public service.
Ahmed Mahmoud Gumel’s early experience in the government of the former Kano State further strengthened his administrative credentials, providing him with practical knowledge of governance, policy implementation and institutional management.
During Nigeria’s Third Republic, he emerged as a leading figure in the Social Democratic Party (SDP), playing a prominent role in the pro-democracy movement. He coordinated political meetings and mobilisation campaigns across several states, contributing to national efforts to strengthen democratic governance and broaden political participation.
A native of Gumel Local Government Area of Jigawa State, Gumel later rose to national prominence through a series of strategic public appointments. From 1999 to 2007, he served as Commissioner for Finance under the administration of former Governor Ibrahim Saminu Turaki, where he was widely recognised as a key member of the state’s economic management team.
In 2007, he was elected Deputy Governor of Jigawa State alongside Governor Sule Lamido and served two consecutive terms until 2015, becoming one of the longest-serving deputy governors in the state’s democratic history. His tenure was distinguished by active involvement in policy formulation, governance and the implementation of key development initiatives.
Following his successful eight-year tenure, Gumel was appointed Federal Commissioner representing Jigawa State at the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), where he contributed to national policy discussions on fiscal federalism, revenue allocation and public finance.
Beyond his public service credentials, supporters describe Gumel as a leader renowned for honesty, integrity, humility, generosity and an unwavering commitment to public welfare. They say his accessibility, compassion for ordinary citizens and ability to connect across political and social divides have earned him lasting goodwill within Jigawa State and beyond.
Associates also highlight his enduring loyalty to longtime friends and political associates, noting that despite holding some of the highest public offices, he has remained approachable and firmly rooted in his grassroots constituency. According to them, his residence continues to serve as a meeting point for people seeking counsel, assistance and meaningful engagement.
As the contest for the 2027 Jigawa Northwest Senatorial seat gathers pace, supporters insist that Ahmed Mahmoud Gumel’s extensive political experience, proven leadership in governance and financial management, and unwavering commitment to democratic ideals distinguish him as one of the strongest contenders in the race. They express confidence that, if elected, he would provide transparent, accountable and inclusive representation in the National Assembly while advancing the aspirations and development priorities of the people of Jigawa Northwest.
— Mati Ali is a journalist, Public relations practitioner and consultant.