Grassroots Donations Hit ₦188m as Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan Eyes 2027 Yobe Governorship

Senator Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan, former President of the Nigerian Senate and representative of Yobe North Senatorial District, has expressed deep appreciation following a remarkable grassroots fundraising drive that has generated about ₦188 million in pledges and donations toward his anticipated 2027 governorship bid in Yobe State.
The fundraising event, held on Sunday in Damaturu, drew wide participation from supporters across the state, reflecting growing momentum around the senator’s political ambition under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a statement issued on Monday, Lawan commended the organizers of the initiative, particularly the Coalition of Yobe East Progressive Youths led by Mohammed Goni Yerima. He described their efforts as a “demonstration of responsible citizenship” and a redefinition of grassroots political engagement.
According to preliminary reports, the funds were raised through a combination of pledges, cash donations, and bank transfers into a designated account with Sterling Bank. Notably, a significant portion of the contributions came from small donors, including widows, traders, mechanic apprentices, and students, with individual donations ranging between ₦100 and ₦3,000.
Lawan emphasized that the scale and nature of the contributions underscore a genuine sense of community ownership and democratic participation.
“That, to me, represents the true meaning of grassroots participation and community ownership. You have not only raised funds for forms; you have redefined what it means to be progressive citizens of Yobe State,” he said.
The senator further noted that the initiative reflects a shared commitment to building an open, transparent, and accountable government that prioritizes the needs and aspirations of the people.
He reiterated that his ambition to govern the state is driven by a desire to respond to the collective call of the people, adding a prayer for divine guidance in the journey ahead.
The development signals early political mobilization ahead of the 2027 elections, with observers noting that such grassroots-driven funding could reshape campaign financing and participation in the state’s political landscape.