A Political Standoff in Nasarawa State
Prof. Mohammed Haruna, a former Executive Vice Chairman of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), has announced his intention to contest the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary in Nasarawa State. His declaration signals a clear stance against any pressure to step down, even if an “anointed” candidate is favored.
This move comes at a time when political support within the state APC is shifting towards Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, who is reportedly backed by Governor Abdullahi Sule as a preferred successor. However, Haruna’s position remains firm, emphasizing his commitment to the democratic process and internal party rules.
Consultative Meeting and Stakeholder Support
Haruna made his position known during a consultative meeting in Keffi, where he engaged with stakeholders and support groups from the three senatorial zones. The purpose of the meeting was to seek a collective decision on whether to proceed with his candidacy or withdraw from the race.
He addressed the gathering, stating that his political future would be determined by their verdict. “If you are resolved that we shall accept the verdict and withdraw from this struggle, I will vote ‘aye’. If the decision of this meeting is that we shall go to the primaries, that is not my problem. That is the essence of this meeting,” he said.
After deliberations across the senatorial districts, the stakeholders unanimously urged Haruna to remain in the race and test his popularity at the APC primaries. Accepting the decision, Haruna pledged to comply with the mandate of his supporters and proceed to contest.
Commitment to Internal Democracy
Haruna emphasized the importance of internal democracy within the APC, stating that his decision to consult widely was informed by loyalty to those who had supported his political structure over time. He also defended his political credentials, recalling his role in the formation and early development of the APC.
“I provided financial support to the Congress for Progressive Change and the establishment of the party. Some chairmen and officials are alive to attest to how we supported the establishment of party offices across local governments. I started my APC from the national. If this forum succeeds, even if I am not the governor, I should celebrate it because it is my initiative,” he said.
Addressing the Succession Debate
Haruna also touched on the state’s succession debate, arguing that expectations around zoning and consensus-building had not been fully met. “We gave a blanket cheque that the governor could select anyone among those that would have our support based on certain expectation, but the situation has changed,” he said.
Reaffirming his commitment to party rules, he stressed that he would accept the outcome of a free and fair primary. “We are not disobedient to constitutional authority. We are in the party and we are working for its success. If the primaries are free, fair and transparent, we will accept whatever Allah has decided as the verdict,” he said.
Dismissing Rumors and Emphasizing Faith
Haruna dismissed suggestions that he had withdrawn from the race, stating that his consultations were part of a democratic process. “Some people spread all sorts of rumours. Some said I have no faith. No, I am demonstrating my faith by doing the right thing. The essence of this meeting is to hear from you,” he added.
Stakeholders at the meeting were unanimous in their support for his continuation in the race, citing zoning equity, performance record, and grassroots appeal. A member of the APC, Suleiman Amgbashi, who spoke for Nasarawa North (Akwanga), said support for Haruna was driven by fairness in micro-zoning within Nasarawa West.
“The governor has a preferred candidate, but that does not automatically make the candidate the choice of everyone. Since there is no consensus, there must be a contest. We told him clearly to go to the primary,” he said.
From Nasarawa West, Amgbashi argued that fairness required rotation within local government areas that had not previously produced governors. “When you do something, there should be micro-zoning. Some local governments have already produced governors. If the position is zoned to Nasarawa West, fairness demands that other local governments be considered,” he said.
Endorsements and Final Declaration
Former APC chairman in Keffi, Mohammad Bello, also backed Haruna, describing him as the most impactful aspirant. “When we look at aspirants and their pedigree, we have not seen any as impactful. The support base is deep and wide,” he said.
Similarly, Rev. Dr. Pastor Benjamin Baka said Haruna’s record in public service placed him ahead of other contenders. “Mohammed Sani Haruna is a frontline aspirant. He has achieved a lot, and he made these achievements while he was DG/CEO of NASENI, even before he could contemplate becoming a politician,” he said.
Following the endorsement, Haruna reaffirmed his readiness for the contest, declaring: “Your verdict has determined our next line of action and I hereby accept to contest the primaries and we will be having our rally on Wednesday.”
