‘Elections not won on social media’ — Uba Sani mocks opposition after by-elections

Uba Sani, governor of Kaduna state, has cautioned politicians against relying on social media propaganda to win elections.

Speaking on Monday at a stakeholders’ meeting after the All Progressives Congress (APC) won two state constituencies and a federal constituency in Saturday’s by-elections in Kaduna, Sani said political victories are secured through grassroots mobilisation and good governance, not online battles.

The governor criticised opposition parties for focusing on “Twitter (X) battles and Facebook noise”, adding that the APC’s emphasis on inclusivity and people-centred policies gave it an edge at the polls.

“There is no ballot box on Twitter. There is no ballot box on Instagram or Facebook. Elections are won at the grassroots, not on social media,” he said.

“Our opponents chose to fight the propaganda battle, but we chose to fight the political battle. They lost because the people know who is working for them. We will not waste our time on social media noisemaking.”

Sani described the victory as historic, noting that some communities in the state supported the APC for the first time since 1999.

He attributed the feat to his administration’s investment in economic development, rural empowerment, and agriculture.

“Since 1999, some communities had never voted for our party. But today, they stood with us because they saw inclusivity in action. We made a pledge to defend everyone, irrespective of religion, ethnicity, or party affiliation—and we kept it,” he said.

Highlighting agricultural reforms, the governor said over 500,000 hectares of farmlands previously abandoned due to insecurity had been reclaimed, making Kaduna a leading producer of maize, tomatoes, and ginger.

Sani urged party executives to stay connected to the grassroots, stressing that the APC’s sustainability in 2027 depends on adherence to its manifesto and continued people-centred governance.

“Party first, politics second. Let us not forget our manifesto. Let us not abandon our wards and local governments. If we remain with the people, no party can defeat us,” he said.

Emmanuel Jekada, APC chairman in Kaduna, commended Sani’s leadership style and praised stakeholders for their role in the party’s victory.

Jekada expressed confidence that unity within the party would consolidate its chances in the 2027 elections.