The political landscape in Nasarawa State has been significantly stirred by Governor Abdullahi Sule’s endorsement of Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada as his preferred successor for the 2027 governorship election. This move has ignited considerable debate and drawn strong reactions from key political figures within the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Former Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar Adamu, who is also vying for the governorship, has firmly rejected the governor’s endorsement of Wadada. Speaking to his supporters and later at a press briefing in Lafia, Adamu declared his unwavering commitment to his bid, asserting that he would not be intimidated or distracted. He emphasized that the ultimate decision rests with the electorate of Nasarawa State, not any single individual, and dismissed rumors of his departure from the APC, insisting on his continued allegiance to the party.

Adamu articulated that while the governor has the right to endorse a candidate, this personal decision does not override the democratic process or dictate the future of Nasarawa State for everyone. He criticized what he perceived as attempts to impose a candidate ahead of the APC primaries, alleging that government officials and party executives were being pressured to support Wadada over other aspirants. He called for party leaders to remain impartial and uphold electoral laws and party guidelines, stressing that he is fully prepared to contest until the end, confident of victory.

Adding to the controversy, former Nasarawa State Governor, Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, also weighed in with sharp criticism, describing Governor Sule’s endorsement as premature and potentially undemocratic. Al-Makura publicly faulted Governor Sule for not consulting him before endorsing Wadada and for presenting the candidate to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu prematurely. He stressed that while a governor has the right to support an aspirant, publicly presenting a preferred candidate before party processes are concluded undermines due process.

Despite Al-Makura’s strong objections, Senator Aliyu Wadada promptly visited the former governor to seek his support, just hours after Al-Makura voiced his criticism. During the visit, captured in a video, Wadada adopted a conciliatory tone, praising Al-Makura’s leadership and appealing for unity and patience. He expressed gratitude for Al-Makura’s patience, acknowledging his foundational role in the state’s development by stating, “The foundation you laid was laid for me.”

Wadada further stressed the collective responsibility of protecting lives in Nasarawa State, particularly highlighting Al-Makura’s greater responsibility given his involvement in the state’s creation. He appealed to the former governor to maintain open communication and patience, while also praying for Al-Makura’s good health and lasting peace in the state. Al-Makura, who had initially opposed the nomination, reportedly responded with laughter, drawing similar reactions from those present.

The development has stirred mixed reactions across Nasarawa State, intensifying political debate within the APC ranks. Stakeholders are divided over the timing and implications of endorsing a preferred candidate before the primary process. Aspirants like Adamu and former governor Al-Makura continue to insist that the eventual candidate must emerge through a transparent and credible primary, assuring that all aspirants should be given a level playing field.