2027:  Zoning debate deepens as Nasarawa North backs Ex- Minister,  Abdullahi for governorship

.,.calls for unity

From Abel Zwanke, , Lafia 

The Stakeholders of Nasarawa North Senatorial District under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have endorsed Mohammed Hassan Abdullahi as their consensus candidate for the 2027 governorship election.

They described the move as a normal and legitimate part of democratic politics.

The endorsement was made on Monday  during a Sallah homage to the former minister at his zonal office in Keffi Local Government Area, amid growing conversations across the state over zoning, equity, and power rotation ahead of 2027.

Speaking on behalf of the stakeholders, Isaac Lucky Yargwa said the decision followed wide consultations and aligns with the long-standing practice of political alignment and endorsements in Nigeria’s democratic process.

“Endorsement is normal in politics. It is part of consultations and consensus-building in a democracy. What we have done is in line with established political culture,” he said.

Yargwa noted that the move was not intended to create division but 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 giving every part of the state a sense of belonging. Since 1999, zoning has helped to stabilize our politics and promote unity,” he stated.

He added that Nasarawa North, despite having only three local government areas, remains a critical stakeholder in the state and should not be sidelined in the leadership equation.

“As a district, we believe strongly in fairness. Every zone deserves its turn, and that principle must guide our collective decisions going forward,” he said.

The stakeholders also called for calm among political actors, stressing the need to avoid heating up the polity as consultations continue across party lines.

Responding, Muhammed Abdullahi appreciated the endorsement but struck a conciliatory tone, urging his supporters to remain open-minded and prepared for a competitive process.

“You people are practicing what I call politics of pragmatism. You are looking at the reality on ground, and I sincerely appreciate this endorsement,” he said.

He, however, cautioned against over-reliance on consensus, noting that divergent interests within the party and across the state may still lead to primaries.

“Let’s not be too relaxed with the concept of consensus. What if some people 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 will be good that this process is deepened at the zonal level to reinforce its importance and acceptance,” he added.

He further urged party faithful to begin grassroots mobilization across wards, warning that political realities suggest not all stakeholders may align with the consensus arrangement.

“Consensus eases tension, but if it doesn’t work, we must be ready to test our strength through democratic elections,” he said.

He calls for unity, peaceful engagement, and issue-based politics, as stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to a fair, inclusive, and stable Nasarawa State.

The development comes at a time when political activities are gradually building up in Nasarawa State, with zoning and power rotation emerging as key issues likely to shape alignments ahead of the 2027 governorship race.