Al-Makura’s Comments on Politics Today: Nasarawa Govt Responds
By Yahaya Idris
The Nasarawa State Government has responded to remarks made by former governor, Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, during his appearance on Politics Today, where he commented on Governor Abdullahi Sule’s endorsement of Ahmed Aliyu Wadada as his preferred aspirant for the 2027 governorship election.
In a statement issued by Ali Abare, Senior Special Assistant on Media to Governor Abdullahi Sule., said Governor Sule has consistently maintained that power ultimately belongs to God and has reaffirmed his commitment to a free and fair primary election.
The government stressed that Senator Wadada’s endorsement reflects the Governor’s personal conviction and does not override the democratic process, noting that all aspirants are expected to contest in the party primaries.
The statement dismissed Senator Al-Makura’s claim of lack of consultation, pointing out that during his tenure, he similarly identified his preferred successor without broad consultations.
It further noted that the former governor appeared to have contradicted himself by later expressing support for Governor Sule’s choice on social media, acknowledging that he too endorsed a successor while in office without opposition.
According to the government, the practice of outgoing governors supporting preferred successors is not new in Nasarawa politics, citing precedents set by past leaders.
It argued that Governor Sule’s action falls within an established political tradition in the state.
The statement also raised concerns about Senator Al-Makura’s neutrality, alleging that shortly before his television appearance, he hosted former Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar Adamu, and his campaign team in Lafia, where he reportedly praised the former police chief as a leading contender in the race.
“Such actions,” the statement noted, “do not reflect neutrality but suggest a clear political preference presented under the guise of principle.”
Defending the Governor’s position, the government highlighted Senator Wadada’s political experience, including two terms in the House of Representatives and his current role in the Senate, as well as his involvement in the political bloc that later merged into the ruling party.
It contrasted this with Mohammed Adamu’s political inexperience, noting that while his policing career was distinguished, he is yet to contest any elective office.
The government advised all dissatisfied aspirants to prepare for the party primaries, describing it as the appropriate platform to test their popularity and credentials.
It maintained that the process would be transparent and fair, urging stakeholders to avoid public accusations of bias.
