2027: I’m Consulting, My People Want Me Back to State Assembly, Says Hon. Shafa
Hon. Usman Labaran Shafa, popularly known as Principal and former member of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly representing the Toto/Gadabuke state constituency on the platform of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has hinted at his intention to re-contest in the 2027 elections, saying the decision ultimately rests with his people.
Shafa, who served a four-year term in the 6th Assembly from 2019 to 2023, disclosed this during an interaction with newsmen in his hometown of Shafan Kwatto on Friday, coinciding with the 2026 Eid-el-Fitr celebrations marking the end of the Ramadan fast.
Expressing profound gratitude to God Almighty for the successful completion of the holy month and the joyous Sallah festivities, the former lawmaker extended warm wishes to his constituents and the entire citizenry of Nasarawa State, urging them to embrace the occasion with peace and reflection.
When pressed on his political ambitions ahead of the forthcoming polls, Shafa emphasized that the people’s mandate would be paramount in guiding his path, revealing that he had returned home primarily to reconnect with his community during the celebrations.
“First, I came down home to relate with my people, to celebrate Sallah with them, and regarding whether I am contesting or not, my direction will be defined by my people, our stakeholders, and it will be based on assessment,” he stated.
The politician further disclosed that numerous calls from constituents have urged him to throw his hat back into the ring, adding that he is currently consulting widely on the matter.
“Many of my constituents have been calling me to re-contest; I am consulting, and the decision of my people at the end of the day will be prioritized. If they say I should contest, I will contest,” Shafa affirmed.
He also seized the opportunity to call on his people to remain law-abiding, sustain peace and unity, and extend unwavering support to Governor Abdullahi Sule in his efforts to deliver dividends of democracy to the state. In a final exhortation to the Muslim faithful, Hon. Shafa urged them to uphold the enduring lessons of Ramadan, including piety, self-discipline, and compassion, long after the festivities have concluded.
