Political analysts and stakeholders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bauchi State have warned that ignoring the growing grassroots support for Dr Bala Maijama’a Wunti ahead of the 2027 governorship election could pose electoral risks to the party.
The caution follows increasing endorsements for the prominent technocrat and humanitarian across communities, wards and local government areas of the state.
Support for Wunti, which initially emerged from beneficiaries of his humanitarian interventions, has expanded to include youth groups, women’s associations, councillorship aspirants, opinion leaders and party stakeholders.
Many supporters now describe the development as the “Bala Wunti Phenomenon,” reflecting what they see as a rapidly expanding political movement across the state.
Observers noted that Wunti’s influence appears rooted more in grassroots acceptance than elite political backing, with many ordinary voters identifying with his humanitarian and empowerment programmes.
Across several local government areas, APC members reportedly argued that the party’s success in 2027 may depend largely on presenting a candidate with strong grassroots appeal and broad public acceptance.
According to supporters, Wunti’s interventions in education, healthcare, economic empowerment and humanitarian assistance have created a strong emotional connection with communities across Bauchi State.
They maintained that, unlike many politicians who appear mainly during election periods, Wunti has sustained community engagements through various support initiatives.
Political watchers also observed that his support base cuts across traditional political divides, with endorsements emerging from both APC members and non-party supporters.
In recent weeks, support groups linked to the Bala Wunti Support Organisation intensified grassroots mobilisation campaigns in parts of the state, including Tafawa Balewa and Warji local government areas.
The campaigns involved ward-to-ward sensitisation, community engagements and door-to-door mobilisation aimed at strengthening support for his governorship ambition.
Party loyalists further pointed to Wunti’s conduct during the APC congresses, where he reportedly allowed internal processes to proceed peacefully and later identified with the newly elected party leadership.
They described the move as a demonstration of political maturity, discipline and commitment to party unity.
Supporters also cited his donation of 24 fully air-conditioned buses to the APC and his Ramadan intervention involving the distribution of 4,500 bags of rice and ₦65 million to party executives and stakeholders as evidence of his commitment to both the party and vulnerable citizens.
As political consultations intensify ahead of the APC governorship primaries, analysts believe the rising wave of endorsements may shape internal party calculations as the APC prepares for the 2027 governorship contest in Bauchi State.
