Rising Political Tensions in Nasarawa State
As the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections for the 2027 general election approach, Senator Ahmed Wadada, the preferred successor of Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule, has made a strong appeal to party stakeholders and leaders to support his bid for governorship. This move comes amid growing discussions about the state’s political landscape and the role of key figures in shaping its future.
Wadada’s campaign has seen him reaching out to influential figures within the APC, including former Governor Tanko Al-Makura, to garner support for his candidacy. However, this effort has not been without challenges, as Al-Makura expressed concerns over the early endorsement of Wadada by the current governor.
During a recent visit by Abubakar Adamu, the former Inspector General of Police and another governorship aspirant, Al-Makura voiced his reservations about the premature nature of the endorsement. He emphasized that the APC had yet to begin the sale of nomination forms, suggesting that the process was still in its early stages.
“I was never consulted as a major stakeholder before the pronouncement of a preferred successor,” Al-Makura stated. “While it may be the governor’s personal decision, it is rather too early. The electoral process is in stages, and we are still at the point where individuals are indicating interest.”
Despite these concerns, Wadada took the initiative to meet with Al-Makura personally on Sunday, seeking his support. During this meeting, Al-Makura expressed his backing for Wadada, although he chose to remain silent publicly on the matter, emphasizing his role as an elder statesman.
A Call for Unity and Collaboration
Wadada, who was hosted to a briefing at the Nigeria Union of Journalists Nasarawa State Council secretariat on Sunday, urged all stakeholders in the state to rally behind his aspirations for the 2027 elections. He highlighted the significance of Sule’s endorsement, describing it as a call to service, disciplined leadership, and the continuation of development initiatives.
According to Wadada, the governor had demonstrated “exceptional wisdom” in managing the political and developmental affairs of the state. He expressed his honor in taking on the responsibility of building upon the administration’s legacy.
“I stand before you today with a deep sense of humility, gratitude, and responsibility following the decision of His Excellency, Governor Abdullahi A. Sule, who formally, on the 16th of April 2026, at a meeting with political appointees, identified me as his preferred successor,” Wadada said.
He also extended his appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the warm reception during their recent visit to the Villa. Additionally, Wadada acknowledged the contributions of fellow aspirants, noting that their shared commitment to progress had strengthened the democratic culture in the state.
A Vision for Nasarawa State
Wadada called on party leaders and aspirants to unite in a collective effort, emphasizing that the task ahead required unity, a shared vision, and disciplined execution. He stressed the importance of moving forward as one Nasarawa, committed to stability, progress, and shared prosperity.
In addition to his political outreach, Wadada also recognized the contributions of traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, women, and other stakeholders for their roles in maintaining peace and stability in the state.
Introducing the HEARTS Agenda
To further outline his governance plans, Wadada unveiled the “HEARTS Agenda,” a people-centred framework designed to deliver inclusive growth and shared prosperity. The agenda is built on six pillars:
- Human Capital Development
- Energy and Mineral Resources
- Agriculture and Green Economy
- Rural and Urban Renewal
- Trade and Investment
- Security
“This vision is not about starting anew; it is about finishing strong and scaling impact,” Wadada explained. He added that the HEARTS Agenda builds on the institutional foundations laid by previous leaders, including Senator Abdullahi Adamu, Governor Aliyu Akwe Doma, and Governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura.
The agenda represents continuity, reform, and measurable development outcomes. Wadada expressed confidence that with strong institutions, coordinated delivery systems, and inclusive economic growth, Nasarawa State could unlock new opportunities across the state.
He concluded by reiterating his commitment to deepening development outcomes, expanding economic opportunities, and securing a future that delivers tangible improvements in the lives of the people of Nasarawa State.
