By Peter Omopo
Bauchi, September 23, 2025 — Political stakeholders in Bauchi State have called on former Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) senior officer, Dr. Bala Wunti, to contest the 2027 governorship election.
The appeal was made on Sunday at a “call to serve” gathering, where party leaders, traditional rulers, professionals, youth groups, and community representatives across the state rallied support for Wunti’s entry into politics.
Elder statesman Mu’azu Tarkunya, speaking at the event, said Wunti’s vast knowledge and role in the Kolmani oil exploration positioned him as the right candidate to transform Bauchi into an oil-producing hub.
“At the first instance, Bala Wunti, alongside the late NNPC GMD, Maikanti Baru, was at the centre of the Kolmani oil exploration in Bauchi and other northern states. His vast energy, knowledge, and experience are needed in Bauchi more than at any other time in the history of the state,” Tarkunya said.
Similarly, former Katagum Local Government Chairman, Muhammad Hassan, speaking on behalf of Bauchi North stakeholders, argued that entrusting leadership to an oil expert was the best way forward. “Our state’s oil, if properly harnessed, will drive more revenue, create employment for our youth, and accelerate infrastructural development,” he said.
Reading from a communiqué, Liman Bello urged Wunti to contest under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), noting that the decision came after wide consultations. The communiqué described Wunti as a humble philanthropist committed to human development, with the competence to address challenges in education, healthcare, agriculture, and the economy.
The forum, which included politicians, religious leaders, artisans, professionals, and groups representing women, youths, and people with disabilities, resolved that Wunti remained the most qualified person to “salvage the state.”
“It is the general opinion of the forum that Dr. Bala is the most qualified and capable person to tackle the challenges bedevilling the state,” the communiqué stated, adding that his candidacy reflected the yearnings of the majority of Bauchi citizens.
Dr. Bala Wunti retired as the Chief Health, Safety and Environment Officer of NNPCL. Before his retirement, he led the Kolmani oil exploration team in Bauchi State.
