APC Elder Rejects Alleged Third-Term Bid, Warns Against Breach of Zoning in Nasarawa/Toto
By Yahaya Idris and Musa Jameel
An elder and stakeholder of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Toto Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, Alhaji Audu Ahere, has warned against any attempt to undermine the existing zoning arrangement governing the Nasarawa/Toto Federal Constituency.
Ahere, who spoke during an interaction with constituents, including youths and women, strongly opposed the alleged third-term bid of the member representing the constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Abdulmumuni Ari, describing it as a violation of the long-standing agreement between Nasarawa and Toto local government areas.
He explained that the zoning formula clearly stipulates that Nasarawa Local Government should occupy the seat for eight years before handing over to Toto Local Government for another eight years, in line with principles of fairness, justice, and political balance.
The APC chieftain expressed concern over reports that several aspirants from Nasarawa Local Government are seeking to contest the seat despite the understanding, noting that the area had already enjoyed significant political advantage over the years.
According to him, Nasarawa Local Government had produced representatives for over 12 years at both the Senate and House of Representatives levels without opposition from Toto, in respect of the zoning arrangement.
Ahere recalled that Architect Ja’afar, who completed the remaining tenure following the death of the late political leader, Hon. Musa Baba Onwana, chose not to seek re-election in adherence to the zoning agreement.
“It is surprising that at a time when it is Toto Local Government’s turn to produce the House of Representatives member, we are seeing multiple aspirants from Nasarawa Local Government jostling for the same position,” he said.
He dismissed suggestions that Toto Local Government’s interest in the senatorial seat should justify any deviation from the zoning formula.
“We are not slaves. Anyone supporting a third-term agenda against the collective interest of Toto Local Government does not mean well for our people,” Ahere declared.
He called on Governor Abdullahi Sule to intervene and ensure that justice, fairness, and equity prevail, urging political office holders from Toto to defend the area’s rights.
The elder statesman maintained that strict adherence to zoning arrangements remains critical to sustaining peace, unity, and political stability within the constituency.
