The lawmaker representing Awe/Doma/Keana Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Abubakar Nalaraba, has withdrawn his ambition to contest the 2027 governorship election in Nasarawa State, declaring his full support for Governor Abdullahi Sule’s preferred candidate, Ahmed Aliyu Wadada.
Nalaraba, who had earlier signalled interest in contesting for the governorship on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), announced his decision on Monday while addressing journalists in Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital. He revealed that he had instead purchased nomination and expression of interest forms to contest for the Nasarawa South Senatorial District seat.
Explaining the rationale behind his decision, the lawmaker said it followed extensive consultations with party leaders, stakeholders, constituents, and elders across the state. He stressed that stepping down from the governorship race was not due to fear or lack of capability, but rather a reflection of political maturity and commitment to the broader interests of the party and the state.
“At critical moments of political consideration, sacrifice and the collective interest of the state must prevail over personal ambition,” Nalaraba said. “As a loyal party member, I align myself totally with the decision of His Excellency, the Governor, who has endorsed Distinguished Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada as the preferred candidate for the governorship ticket.”
He further emphasised that his decision was consistent with his earlier stance at various stakeholders’ meetings, where he had pledged to support any direction chosen by the state leadership of the APC. According to him, honouring that commitment underscores the importance of loyalty, unity, and collective advancement in politics.
Nalaraba also pledged to mobilise his political structure and supporters across wards and local government areas to ensure Wadada’s success at both the party primaries and the general election. He described the move as a necessary step to preserve unity, peace, and stability within the party.
Turning to his senatorial ambition, Nalaraba said he had responded to calls from constituents and stakeholders urging him to represent Nasarawa South at the National Assembly. He noted that his decision to join the Senate race reflects his continued desire to serve and advocate for the interests of his people at a higher legislative level.
While acknowledging the challenges ahead, the lawmaker expressed confidence that with collective effort and strong grassroots support, victory in the 2027 senatorial election was achievable.
Political analysts suggest that Nalaraba’s withdrawal and endorsement of Wadada could significantly shape the dynamics of the APC’s governorship race in Nasarawa State, reinforcing party cohesion ahead of the elections.
