Nasarawa Rep Withdraws from Gov Race, Backs Sule’s Preferred Aspirant

In a significant political maneuver, Abubakar Hassan Nalaraba, the lawmaker representing Awe/Doma/Keana Federal Constituency, has stepped down from his 2027 governorship aspirations in Nasarawa State. This decision, he states, is a demonstration of political maturity and loyalty, aligning himself completely with Governor Abdullahi Sule’s choice of Senator Ahmed Wadada as the preferred candidate for the governorship ticket. Nalaraba's move signals a consolidation of power within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, prioritizing party unity and collective progress over personal ambition.

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At critical moments of political consideration, sacrifice and the collective interest of the state must prevail over personal ambition. As a loyal party member, I align myself totally with the decision of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule has endorsed Distinguished Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada as his preferred candidate for the governorship ticket of our great party.

Nalaraba explained his decision to journalists in Lafia, emphasizing that it was not driven by fear or lack of capacity, but by a commitment to the state's peace, stability, and the APC's cohesion. He has instead purchased nomination and expression of interest forms to vie for the Nasarawa South Senatorial District seat. This strategic shift allows him to remain a key player in the state's political arena while supporting the governor's agenda, a move that resonates with the traditional emphasis on deference to leadership within Nigerian politics.

His declaration of unwavering support for Senator Wadada, coupled with a promise to deploy his political structure and mobilize supporters, underscores the importance of consensus-building in Nigerian elections. Nalaraba's commitment to honoring his word, given at previous stakeholders' meetings, highlights the value placed on integrity and fulfilling promises within the political class. This narrative of sacrifice and loyalty is often central to how political realignments are framed and understood locally.

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I gave my word, and I stand by it, and today, I honour that commitment in full. Politics must never be reduced to a contest of personal interest alone. It must always remain a platform for sacrifice, loyalty, understanding, and collective advancement.

This development is particularly interesting from a local perspective as it showcases the intricate dynamics of power and influence within the APC in Nasarawa State. While Western media might focus on the shift in electoral contests, the local interpretation emphasizes the importance of party discipline, the governor's influence, and the strategic positioning of political figures. Nalaraba's decision, framed as a sacrifice for the collective good, reflects a political culture where such gestures are seen as vital for maintaining party harmony and ensuring electoral success.

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In this regard, I hereby declare my total and unwavering support for the candidacy of Distinguished Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada. I will deploy my entire political structure, mobilise my supporters across the wards and LGAs, and commit the necessary resources to ensure his success at both the primary and general electio