Governor Abdullahi A. Sule: A Peacemaker and Unifying Force in Nasarawa State., — By Comr. Jaafar M. Loko
Governor Abdullahi A. Sule of Nasarawa State has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, particularly in fostering political stability and promoting unity within the state. His strategic approach to governance, marked by a commitment to consensus-building and inclusive development, has positioned him as a significant figure in Nigerian politics. Governor Sule’s pivotal role in ensuring successful party congresses and his enduring legacy as a peacemaker and symbol of unity in Nasarawa State made him excelled among colleagues.
Governor Sule’s leadership was instrumental in the successful conduct of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ward, Local Government and state congress in Nasarawa State which was completed on March 3, 2026, with the congress, held at Lafia Square, culminated in the adoption of a consensus list for all the state executive positions and inauguration of ward and Local Government elected officials. This outcome was a testament to Governor Sule’s ability to unite diverse political interests and ensure a harmonious process.
The consensus approach, which saw the return of key officials such as Dr. Aliyu Bello as State Chairman, Hon. Kunda Jatau Kunda as Deputy Chairman, and Yairus G. Dagusa as State Secretary, was widely lauded for preventing internal friction and demonstrating the party’s cohesion ahead of the 2027 general elections. Governor Sule actively engaged with prominent political figures, including former governors Abdullahi Adamu and Tanko Al-Makura, in high-level meetings to forge a unified front, underscoring his dedication to party solidarity.
Beyond party politics, Governor Sule has consistently championed peace and unity as the bedrock of development in Nasarawa State. His administration has prioritised conflict resolution and inter-communal harmony, earning him a reputation as a true peacemaker.
Governor Sule has been proactive in addressing long-standing conflicts, particularly those arising from border disputes. He co-convened a Joint Peace and Security Meeting with the Governor of Benue State to tackle clashes between the Alago, Tiv, and Fulani ethnic groups. This initiative led to resolutions aimed at expediting boundary demarcation and implementing community policing strategies to prevent future hostilities.
His proactive measures also brought a lasting solution to the decades-long communal crisis in Toto Local Government Area between the Igbira and Bassa ethnic nationalities. Governor Sule convened high-level stakeholders meetings and established a Bassa Resettlement Consultation Committee to ensure the safe and collective return of displaced Bassa people, emphasising permanent peace over temporary fixes. Similarly, he intervened in the intra-ethnic dispute in Udege Development Area between the Eki and Ambu clans of Afo extraction. In a decisive move, he disbanded the factional traditional rulers, banished contending families, and appointed an Administrator to oversee peace efforts and facilitate a lasting resolution, providing humanitarian aid to those affected.
Furthermore, Governor Sule has shown unwavering commitment to resolving lingering farmer-herder clashes. While acknowledging that traditional farmer-herder conflicts have largely evolved into issues of criminality like kidnapping, his administration continues to implement proactive measures such as joint peace meetings with neighboring states, community policing, and direct orders to security agencies to investigate and prosecute perpetrators of attacks on either farmers or herders.
Demonstrating a deep commitment to religious tolerance in the state, Governor Sule has undertaken several initiatives to promote interfaith harmony. Recently,he hosted an Interfaith Iftar with security chiefs, emphasising the importance of unity across religious divides. A remarkable symbol of this commitment was the commissioning of the Dari Central Juma’at Mosque, a project notably built by a Christian Commissioner, Hon Dr John D. W. Mamma, Commissioner of Education, showcasing profound inter-religious cooperation within the state.
Furthermore, Governor Sule has encouraged cultural integration by urging all ethnic nationalities to celebrate their diversity through cultural fiestas, such as those organized by the Adogi Traditional Council, Kokona carnival, Ogiri festival Angwatashi and many others. These events serve as platforms for fostering understanding and mutual respect among different communities.
Governor Sule’s approach to political leadership is characterized by inclusivity. He has publicly stated that he holds
no enemies among governorship aspirants and insists on a level playing field for all, particularly concerning the 2027 elections. He has consistently defended the principle of zoning for the governorship position, asserting that it ensures fairness, inclusion, and peaceful coexistence among the state’s three senatorial zones. His ability to engage with and unify political heavyweights, including former rivals like David Ombugadu (a former PDP candidate), further solidifies his image as a unifying force.
Governor Sule views industrialization not merely as an economic strategy but as a vital tool for peace and stability. His administration’s focus on attracting investments, such as the Ganfeng Mining Company lithium project, aims to create employment opportunities for the youth. By providing meaningful engagement and economic prospects, industrialization helps to reduce the likelihood of social unrest and conflict, thereby strengthening the foundation for lasting peace in Nasarawa State. From his first day in office on May 29, 2019, Governor Sule declared peace and security as the
“non-negotiable foundation” for all development.
In conclusion, Governor Abdullahi A. Sule has emerged as a transformative leader in Nasarawa State, skillfully navigating complex political landscapes and fostering an environment of peace and unity. His adept handling of party congresses through consensus, coupled with his unwavering commitment to inter-state cooperation, interfaith harmony, and inclusive governance, underscores his role as a true peacemaker. By leveraging industrialization as a tool for economic empowerment and social stability, Governor Sule is not only building a prosperous Nasarawa but also solidifying his legacy as a symbol of unity for generations to come.
To ensure the sustainability and continuity of these invaluable legacies of peace and development, it is incumbent upon the citizens of Nasarawa State as progressive minded to embrace and support whoever Governor Sule anoints as his successor in 2027 general elections.
