Key stakeholders of the African Democratic Congress in Nasarawa North Senatorial Zone have endorsed Barrister Mohammed Hassan Abdullahi, former Minister of Environment, as consensus candidate for the 2027 gubernatorial election.
The stakeholders made the endorsement during a Sallah homage to the former minister at his zonal office in Keffi.
Speaking on behalf of the stakeholders, Ambassador Isaac Lucky Yargwa, former Commissioner of Youth and Sports Development, explained that the decision followed extensive consultations and aligns with the long-standing practice of political alignment and endorsements in Nigeria’s democratic process.
“Endorsements are a normal part of politics. They are an integral aspect of consultations and consensus-building within a democracy. Our actions are consistent with established political culture,” he stated.
Yargwa noted that the move was not intended to create division but rather to contribute to ongoing discussions on zoning and fairness among the three senatorial districts.
“This is not about imposition; it is about equity, justice, and ensuring every part of the state has a sense of belonging. Since 1999, zoning has played a crucial role in stabilizing our politics and promoting unity,” he emphasized.
He added that Nasarawa North, despite having only three local government areas, remains a vital stakeholder in the state and should not be marginalized in the leadership equation.
“As a district, we firmly believe in fairness. Every zone deserves its turn, and that principle must guide our collective decisions moving forward,” he said.
The stakeholders also called for calm among political actors, stressing the need to avoid escalating tensions within the polity as consultations continue across party lines.
In response, Barrister Muhammed Abdullahi expressed appreciation for the endorsement but struck a conciliatory tone, urging his supporters to remain open-minded and prepared for a competitive process.
“You are practicing what I term ‘politics of pragmatism’. You are acknowledging the reality on the ground, and I sincerely appreciate this endorsement,” he said.
However, the former Minister cautioned against over-reliance on consensus, noting that divergent interests within the party and across the state may still lead to primaries.
“Let us not be too complacent with the concept of consensus. What if some individuals do not agree? We must prepare for primary elections,” he said.
Abdullahi emphasized the need for broader consultations beyond the initial endorsement, particularly within the three local government areas of Nasarawa North, to strengthen unity within the zone.
“It would be beneficial to deepen this process at the zonal level to reinforce its importance and acceptance,” he added.
He further urged party faithful to initiate grassroots mobilization across wards, warning that political realities suggest not all stakeholders may align with the consensus arrangement.
“Consensus eases tension, but if it does not work, we must be prepared to test our strength through democratic elections,” he said.
He called for unity, peaceful engagement, and issue-based politics, as stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to a fair, inclusive, and stable Nasarawa State.
