“You Don’t Do Election On Social Media” — Kaduna Commissioner Sadiq Mamman-Lagos Says Uba Sani’s Second Term Will Be Decided At Grassroots, Not On Facebook

Kaduna State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Sadiq Mamman-Lagos, has dismissed the growing influence of social media ahead of the 2027 elections, saying Governor Uba Sani’s re-election will be determined by grassroots voters.

Addressing journalists in Kaduna on Monday, Mamman-Lagos expressed confidence that Governor Sani would win a second term and the APC would improve on the performance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the state.

His comments came amid increasing political activities on social media where supporters of various parties have intensified campaigns.

“You don’t do politics on social media, and you don’t do elections on social media,” he said.

He cautioned politicians against interpreting social-media trends, online arguments and large crowds at rallies as indications of actual electoral strength.

“So, the rating on social media is not the rating that you people should consider, having the crowds during political rallies or campaigns, is not a result of the election,” he said.

The commissioner said political parties should concentrate on grassroots mobilisation, noting that women, particularly those in rural communities, remain the most important voting bloc.

“The people that control political elections in Nigeria are women. People don’t realise that. When the election comes, go and see the turnout of women. They will join a queue, spend hours and hours, especially women in rural areas, at the local government level,” he said.

He attributed the administration’s political strength to improved unity, inclusion and engagement with different communities and traditional institutions.

“Kaduna has changed in terms of unity. That is one important thing. And once you have unity, you have peace,” he said.

Mamman-Lagos particularly identified Southern Kaduna as a potentially decisive area in 2027, citing government projects and political appointments as evidence of increased inclusion.

“Southern Kaduna can be one of the jokers,” he said, adding that the APC was gradually making inroads into areas previously regarded as opposition strongholds.