Former Director-General of Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS), Malam Lawal Musa Daura, has formally declared his intention to contest the Katsina State governorship, saying his decision was informed by sustained calls from residents who believe he has the capacity to address the state’s worsening security challenges.

Daura said his entry into the race is driven by a desire to contribute to efforts aimed at rescuing Katsina from insecurity and other socio-economic problems confronting the state. He noted that his background in security and public service positions him to offer purposeful leadership at a critical time.

The former intelligence chief emphasized that politics is not new to him, explaining that throughout his years in the military and the DSS, political engagement was an integral part of governance and policy implementation. He dismissed claims that he is a newcomer to politics, describing his experience as that of an expert who understands the system from within.

“Throughout my service in the military and at the DSS, politics was never detached from my responsibilities. What may appear new to some people is only my open declaration of interest,” Daura said.

He stressed that his acceptance of public calls is anchored on the need for effective leadership capable of confronting insecurity and improving governance outcomes in Katsina State.

Daura has, however, not disclosed the political party under which he intends to run. Political observers are divided over whether he will seek the ticket of a major opposition party such as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) or the African Democratic Congress (ADC), or contest under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), where he is believed to have longstanding political associations linked to former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Recent political realignments within the APC have fueled speculation, following the defection of some high-profile figures from the party over alleged concerns about governance and internal democracy. Former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufa’i, has previously cited such issues in public statements.

As political activities gather momentum nationwide ahead of the next election cycle, attention is expected to focus on Daura’s eventual party choice and the implications his candidacy may have for the political dynamics of Katsina State.