Nasarawa 2027: Ex-NASENI Boss Haruna Picks APC Forms, Denies Stepping Down
By Roseline Okafor, Nasarawa
A former Chief Executive Officer of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure, NASENI, Prof. Mohammed Sani Haruna, has dismissed reports suggesting he has withdrawn from the 2027 governorship race in Nasarawa State, reaffirming his resolve to contest under the platform of the All Progressives Congress.
Haruna made the clarification during a mega rally held in Keffi Local Government Area, where supporters from across the state gathered to express solidarity with his ambition.
“I remain firmly in the race. No individual can determine the outcome of this contest except the people through the APC primaries,” he declared.
The former NASENI boss also used the occasion to outline his governance priorities, pledging to promote transparency, accountability, and the effective utilisation of the state’s human resources if elected.
“Our focus will be on harnessing the talents and capabilities of our people while ensuring openness in governance,” he said.
The rally recorded a large turnout, with supporters chanting solidarity songs and expressing confidence in his candidacy.
His arrival was greeted with enthusiastic cheers, signalling what observers describe as growing grassroots support.
Haruna’s remarks follow speculations that he had stepped down in favour of Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, who is believed to enjoy the backing of Governor Abdullahi Alhaji Sule.
However, he maintained that the party’s primary election remains the only legitimate avenue for selecting its candidate.
“The APC primaries will determine who emerges as flag bearer. That is the democratic process we must all respect,” he emphasised.
He further disclosed that his decision to remain in the race followed wide consultations with stakeholders and support groups across the state, as well as feedback from public engagement forums which, he said, encouraged him to sustain his ambition.
Political observers note that the show of support at the rally and his renewed declaration may position Haruna as a strong contender in the forthcoming APC primaries, despite existing endorsements within the party.
