Yero, ex-Kaduna governor, joins governorship race

Ramalan Yero, a former governor of Kaduna state, has declared his interest to run for the state’s governorship election in 2019.

Yero presented his letter of intent to contest the election at the state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)’s secretariat on Monday.

The former governor is currently under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), for alleged fraud.

In May, he was among the five persons arraigned before a federal high court sitting in Kaduna over their alleged roles in the disbursement of N750 million campaign fund for the PDP during the 2015 general election

Yero said he is seeking to return to office during to the “genuine” concern he has for the people of the state, and the “numerous calls” he has received to contest in the election.

He said: “Having considered the plight of my people, l have consulted widely with my family members, key party stalwarts, political associates and other party faithful and have come to the conclusion to grant the wishes of my people by declaring to contest the gubernatorial election by the special grace of the Almighty Allah.

“We are living witnesses to the myriad of problems facing the state. Governance since May 29, 2015 has been a series of half-hearted trial and errors, with disastrous consequences on the people particularly the common man.”

He said the current administration in the state “no longer cares” about the primary purpose of its existence — providing security and improving the welfare of citizens.

“Lives and properties are being lost daily due to activities of armed banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery, youth thuggery and street gangsterism,” he added.

“I believe that my humble track record of academic achievements and working experience in both the private and public sectors, have earned me tremendous knowledge, skills and capacity to understand the multiple expectations of our people across the state.”