‘30-Year-Old’ Mahmud Sparks Reactions as He Declares Reps Bid

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

Fresh reactions have continued to trail the emergence of Mahmud Sadis Buba as an aspirant for the House of Representatives seat of Sabon Gari Federal Constituency in Kaduna State, following his pickup of the All Progressives Congress (APC) nomination form and his subsequent public declaration of ambition.

Mahmud, whose reported age of about 30 years has triggered online debate, formally joined the race on Monday, pledging to offer what he described as honest and people-focused representation if elected.

Speaking to journalists shortly after obtaining his nomination form in Abuja, Mahmud said his decision to contest was driven by a desire to serve and improve the quality of representation available to his constituency.

He said his journey into politics was shaped by resilience and personal growth, noting that his background strengthened his belief in equal opportunity and hard work.

“My aspiration is anchored on a clear vision to provide honest representation and purposeful leadership for the people of Sabon Gari,” he said.

He added that his priority would be to ensure that the needs and concerns of residents are effectively represented at the national level.

“My goal is to address the concerns of my people and ensure their voices are adequately represented. This is about development and creating opportunities that benefit everyone,” he told journalists.

Mahmud also described his ambition as a collective project, urging residents to support his candidacy as he seeks to contribute to the development of the constituency.

He appealed for trust and cooperation from constituents, stressing the need for unity in driving progress across Sabon Gari.

Later on Monday, Mahmud took to his official Facebook page to formally announce his candidacy, where he further reflected on his personal journey and appealed for public support.

In the post, he confirmed obtaining his nomination form and reiterated his commitment to service.

“Today, I humbly announce that I have obtained my nomination form to contest for the House of Representatives, Sabon Gari Federal Constituency,” he wrote.

He traced his background to modest beginnings, saying his rise was built on determination and perseverance.

“From my beginnings as a driver to this moment, my journey has been built on hard work, resilience, and the belief that every individual—no matter their background—can rise to serve,” he stated.

Mahmud added that his campaign would focus on inclusive representation and grassroots development.

“I am stepping forward with a clear vision: to represent the people of Sabon Gari with honesty, dedication, and true leadership. Your voice will be heard, your concerns will matter,” he wrote.

He further described his ambition as a shared mission, urging residents to support what he called a collective struggle for progress.

“This campaign is not just about me, it is about us, our future, and the progress of our constituency,” he added. “Sabon Gari, let’s rise as one.”

Meanwhile, reactions have trailed his emergence following unverified claims circulating on social media about his age.

A Facebook post attributed to *Nigerian Military Gallery* claimed that Mahmud is about 30 years old, describing his candidacy as a challenge to youth participation in politics.

“Hon Mahmud Sadis Buba is 30 years old. He bought his form to vie for the Reps seat in Zaria. A challenge to the youth,” the post stated.

However, a “former teacher” of the aspirant, Abdul Salihu, disputed the claim, suggesting he may be younger than reported.

“That boy is not up to 20 years. I taught him in primary school about six years ago in Samaru Zaria. Grace has always been speaking for him because of his stature and comic behaviour. He is also brilliant,” he said.

Another social media user, Michael Adeeleye, praised the development, writing: “Omo this is amazing. Small boy with big God.”

The APC is expected to hold its primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections as aspirants intensify campaigns across constituencies.