In the run-up to the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries in Kaduna State, political activity in Lere West has taken on a renewed intensity. At the centre of the conversation is Hon. Tom Garba, a figure whose growing support base among party stakeholders and grassroots mobilizers is shaping the narrative ahead of the contest.
Across communities in the constituency, party faithful—from elders and women groups to youths and market leaders—are coalescing around a single message: if the APC intends to retain its stronghold in Lere West, Hon. Garba should emerge as its flag bearer for the State House of Assembly seat.
For many supporters, the argument goes beyond political loyalty. It is rooted in what they describe as a track record of accessibility, empowerment, and inclusive leadership. In interviews with party members and community influencers, a consistent theme emerges—Garba is seen not only as a politician but as a familiar presence in the daily realities of the people.
“Hon. Tom Garba represents the future we desire,” said Nehemiah, a long-standing party member, during a recent interaction with journalists. He pointed to Garba’s youth-focused initiatives, noting that “his record of empowering young people and supporting community development stands out.”
Among women in the constituency, the endorsement appears equally strong. Jummai, a party stalwart, expressed frustration with what she described as years of inadequate representation, contrasting it with Garba’s perceived responsiveness. According to her, his interventions in areas such as support for widows and promotion of girl-child education have made him a preferred choice among women voters.
“Our voices matter, and he has shown that he listens,” she said, adding that many women in Lere West are rallying behind his candidacy.
Youth engagement is another factor frequently cited by supporters. Community elder Mallam Umar observed that unemployment and lack of skills remain pressing concerns for young people in the area. He argued that Garba’s initiatives—ranging from skills acquisition programmes to small-scale business support—have resonated strongly with this demographic.
“The youth see him as one of their own,” Umar said. “That connection could be decisive at the polls.”
Beyond specific interest groups, Garba’s appeal is also framed in terms of unity. In a constituency marked by diverse ethnic and religious identities, several stakeholders describe him as a bridge-builder. Alhaji Ibrahim, a respected elder, emphasised the importance of cohesion in local politics, noting that Garba’s ability to engage across divides has earned him widespread respect.
“In Lere West, we need someone who brings people together,” he said. “He has built relationships across communities—farmers, traders, Muslims, Christians alike.”
Among younger entrepreneurs and artisans, the sentiment is similarly positive. Jauro, who represents a network of market leaders, highlighted Garba’s practical support for small businesses, describing his interventions as “visible and impactful.”
For party insiders, these endorsements signal more than routine pre-primary lobbying. They reflect a broader calculation about electability in an increasingly competitive political environment. Analysts note that Lere West remains a strategic constituency for the APC, and candidate selection could significantly influence the party’s performance in the general election.
Within this context, Garba’s supporters argue that his cross-cutting appeal positions him as a unifying and vote-winning candidate. Hajia Salamatu, another party stalwart, captured this sentiment succinctly: “If APC wants to win Lere West, Tom Garba is the candidate—there are no two ways about it.”
Supporters also point to his political experience and consistent advocacy in areas such as agriculture, youth empowerment, and women’s inclusion. These, they argue, have helped him build a reputation that extends beyond party lines, even attracting attention in opposition-leaning areas.
As the primaries draw closer, the call from Lere West appears increasingly coordinated and emphatic. Stakeholders are urging party leaders at both state and national levels to align with what they describe as the “clear will of the people” by endorsing Garba’s candidacy.
Whether the APC leadership will heed this call remains to be seen. But for now, in Lere West, the momentum behind Hon. Tom Garba continues to gather pace—driven by a mix of grassroots mobilisation, political calculation, and a shared aspiration for continuity and development.