From: Edirin Robinson
After months of increasing pressure from youths, women’s groups, and community leaders, Hon. Emmanuel Tabat Khoza has finally agreed to run for the House of Representatives in the 2027 general elections.
The grassroots politician and philanthropist announced his decision following a series of town hall meetings and ward consultations across the constituency, where constituents openly urged him to represent them in the National Assembly.
Speaking to a large crowd of supporters at his rural home over the weekend, Hon. Khoza said he could no longer ignore repeated appeals from his people, who believe he can provide effective representation.
“I have heard you clearly. Your voices have been loud, consistent, and sincere. Today, I am bowing to your call. I will contest for the House of Representatives in 2027 by the grace of God,” he declared to loud applause.
He explained that the decision was not made lightly but came after deep reflection, prayer, and discussions with family, political allies, and traditional institutions within the constituency.
According to him, the people need a voice that understands their struggles, shares their pains, and is willing to fight for their interests at the federal level.
In light of this, Hon. Emmanuel Tabat Khoza has started consulting stakeholders in the All Progressives Congress (APC) across the constituency and other key parties outside the party structure.
Sources close to his campaign confirmed that these consultations are extensive, involving ward leaders, local government officials, youth and women leaders, religious figures, and traditional rulers.
Political analysts say this move shows a serious, organized approach to his ambition, as he seeks to build a broad coalition ahead of the party primaries.
Constituents who spoke to our reporter said Khoza’s acceptance has reignited political enthusiasm, with many calling him a “bridge between the old and the young.”
Mrs. Rahab Danjuma, a woman leader from one of the wards, stated, “They support him because of his record of helping widows, paying school fees for needy students, and empowering rural farmers even without holding public office.”
“He listens and acts. We are tired of representatives who disappear after elections. Emmanuel has been with us even without a mandate. Imagine what he will do with one,” she added.
Youth leader Comrade Bitrus Yakubu said the call for Khoza to run began in early 2025, as many communities faced issues such as poor federal infrastructure, unemployment, and insecurity.
“We needed someone who knows our terrain and can effectively advocate for projects. After many meetings, we decided he’s the best person for the job, and we pressured him daily,” Yakubu explained.
Reacting to his declaration, a respected APC member in the area, who asked to remain anonymous, said Khoza’s entry into the race has changed the political landscape, calling him a “credible and sellable candidate.”
He added that the party would benefit from choosing a grassroots mobilizer who already has acceptance across religious and ethnic groups.
During one of his consultations with party stakeholders, Khoza promised to run an issue-focused campaign centered on education, rural roads, healthcare, job creation, and peacebuilding.
He emphasized that strong legislation and oversight are crucial for attracting federal support and is committed to working with state and local governments to complete and maintain constituency projects.
He also assured delegates and party leaders that he would respect internal processes and promote unity, stating his ambition is a call to service, not a do-or-die pursuit.
Traditional leaders in the area welcomed his decision. One said, “Emmanuel is our son, and his heart has always been with the people. We will pray for him and guide him.”
As part of his ongoing consultations, Khoza has met with artisan groups, market women’s associations, students’ unions, and persons with disabilities to gather ideas for his legislative agenda.
He emphasized that his campaign will be driven by the people and data, with a technical committee already collecting development needs from each ward to shape his platform.
With the 2027 elections still months away, political experts believe that Khoza’s early announcement and wide-ranging consultations give him a significant advantage and position him as a leading contender for the House of Representatives seat.
