Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule has declared his intention to contest the Nasarawa North senatorial district seat in the 2027 elections, following persistent calls from political and traditional leaders in the region.
Governor Sule made the announcement during a Sallah visit by members of the State Executive Council at his residence in Gudi, Akwanga Local Government Area, as reported by Daily Trust. He stated that the encouragement from leaders from Nasarawa North prompted his decision, adding that he did not want to disregard their wishes.
“Considering the pressure I am getting from our leaders, and I don’t want it to seem like I’m ignoring their wishes, I have agreed to contest when the time comes,” Governor Sule said.
He further explained that he had initially planned to support another prospective candidate but altered his position after that individual also joined the group urging him to run. The governor’s declaration sets the stage for a potentially significant shift in the state’s political dynamics ahead of the 2027 polls.
Governor Sule, first elected in 2019, is serving his second and final term as governor, which constitutionally ends in 2027. His move from the state’s highest executive office to pursue a legislative seat aligns with a common pattern among Nigerian governors seeking to remain in politics after completing their tenure.
Nasarawa North is one of three senatorial districts in the state. The incumbent senator for the district, Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, has not publicly declared his re-election bid for 2027. Governor Sule’s entry into the race is expected to reshape the contest, given his incumbency advantage and established political structure across the state.
His intention, communicated privately to close associates before the public announcement, signals the early start of succession politics in Nasarawa. Analysts note that the governor’s endorsement or direct participation will heavily influence the outcome of the senatorial election and could impact the broader 2027 governorship race, as Senate candidates often play roles in selecting their party’s gubernatorial flag-bearers.
With over two years before the elections, Governor Sule’s declaration serves as an early indicator of the emerging political alliances and contests in Nasarawa State. His next steps will likely involve formal consultations with party leadership and stakeholders to solidify his candidacy within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) framework.
