The Humanitarian Times

By Abdulkareem Haruna

The race for the Hawul/Askira-Uba Federal Constituency seat took a decisive turn on Wednesday as a prominent grassroots politician and philanthropist, Samaila Satumari, officially entered the contest under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Mr. Satumari, popularly known as “Satumari Kudla,” picked up his Expression of Interest and Nomination forms at the APC National Headquarters in Abuja, signaling the end of months of speculation regarding his political direction ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Shortly after obtaining the documents, the aspirant led a delegation of supporters to visit the Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, at the Governor’s Lodge in Abuja. The visit was described by aides as a “strategic consultation” to formally present the forms and seek the governor’s blessings as the party prepares for its primary elections.

A source close to the aspirant told Premium Times that the governor received Mr. Satumari warmly, reiterating his commitment to a level playing field for all qualified aspirants while emphasizing the need for party loyalty and community-focused leadership.

A Background of Service
Mr. Satumari is far from a newcomer to the political and social fabric of Southern Borno. A seasoned businessman with interests in aviation and logistics, he has built a reputation over the last decade as one of the region’s most consistent philanthropists. Through the Satumari Kudla Foundation, he has self-funded numerous educational interventions, including university scholarships for hundreds of indigent students and the rehabilitation of primary healthcare centers across Hawul and Askira-Uba.
Previously a leading figure in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), his transition to the APC is seen by analysts as a calculated move to align his “developmental blueprint” with the incumbent administration’s “Borno Model” of reconstruction and resettlement. His supporters argue that his deep-rooted connection with the local population, regardless of party lines, makes him a formidable bridge-builder.
Beyond politics, Mr. Satumari is recognized for his advocacy in regional security. He has frequently called for increased military presence and community-led intelligence gathering to protect farmers and traders in the southern senatorial district, a stance that has earned him significant respect among traditional rulers and local stakeholders.

The Race for the Ticket
The entry of Mr. Satumari into the APC primary is expected to heighten the competition for the Hawul/Askira-Uba ticket. While the field features several experienced contenders, including state assembly veterans and party loyalists, political observers suggest that Satumari stands out as one of the most qualified candidates in the fold.

“He brings a rare mix of private sector efficiency and a proven track record of personal sacrifice for his people,” said a top APC chieftain in Maiduguri who asked not to be named.

“His chances are quite high because he isn’t just coming to ask for votes; he is coming with a ledger of what he has already done for the constituency as a private citizen.”

As the APC prepares for its internal screenings, the spotlight will remain on how Mr. Satumari’s “blessing” from Governor Zulum translates into momentum on the ground. For the people of Hawul and Askira-Uba, the focus remains on who can best navigate the complexities of federal representation to bring home the much-needed dividends of democracy.