2027 Shocker: SDP Replaces Nasarawa Guber Candidate After Initial Pick

Former Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, has been officially affirmed as the Social Democratic Party's (SDP) candidate for the 2027 governorship election in Nasarawa State. This development follows a substitution primary conducted in Lafia, the state capital, subsequent to the withdrawal of Musa Angbazo, who had initially been listed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the party’s standard-bearer, creating initial uncertainty regarding the party's choice.

The replacement primary was meticulously carried out across all 13 local government areas of Nasarawa State. Joseph Achille, chairman of the SDP electoral committee for the state, confirmed that a total of 28,637 delegates participated in the exercise, with ward results duly collated. As Mr. Adamu was the sole candidate in the primary, he was declared the winner after securing the highest lawful and valid votes. Mr. Achille emphasized that the election was conducted peacefully and lawfully, conferring upon him the privilege to declare Mohammed Adamu as the SDP’s governorship candidate and flag bearer for the 2027 election, describing the exercise as free, fair, and credible.

In his acceptance speech, Mr. Adamu expressed his profound gratitude to the delegates for their confidence and pledged to offer a viable alternative to the current administration in Nasarawa State. The former police chief outlined key priorities for his potential administration, focusing significantly on infrastructure and social services. He noted, from his assessments during visits across the state, that many roads in the hinterlands have been neglected, vowing to prioritize their development.

Furthermore, Mr. Adamu identified healthcare and agriculture as crucial sectors requiring enhanced attention, stressing the importance of extending government services beyond the state capital and other urban centers to benefit all communities. He also raised concerns regarding the management of Nasarawa’s rich mineral resources, asserting that the state’s residents should reap greater benefits from their natural wealth.

Regarding his campaign strategy, Mr. Adamu indicated a commitment to presenting specific, detailed programs tailored for each local government area, rather than relying on broad, general political promises. This approach aims to address the unique needs and challenges of different communities across the state. Mr. Adamu, who served as Inspector-General of Police from 2019 to 2021 and hails from Lafia, brings a high-profile status to the SDP's ticket as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 governorship election. The party is now expected to complete the necessary documentation and substitution processes with INEC to formalize Mr. Adamu’s candidacy.