Nasarawa State will not adopt a zoning arrangement for its governorship seat ahead of the 2027 election, according to Mohammed Abubakar Adamu, a former Inspector General of Police and current governorship aspirant under the All Progressives Congress (APC). Adamu, who hails from Nasarawa South, dismissed claims that the position should be reserved for a specific zone, insisting that the state has never implemented zoning since the return of democratic rule in 1999.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Friday, Adamu emphasized that the direct primary system would ensure a level playing field for all aspirants. He argued that this approach allows the electorate to choose their preferred candidate, unlike the indirect primary system, which he claimed could be manipulated through delegate influence.
The incumbent governor, Abdullahi Sule, is reportedly inclined to support a candidate from Nasarawa West, his own zone. However, Adamu maintained that the decision ultimately rests with the voters. “I do not expect any patronage from the governor,” he said, adding that his campaign has taken him to all 147 wards in the state to understand local challenges and rally support.
Adamu also ruled out the possibility of a consensus arrangement, stating that such a move would be unacceptable if multiple aspirants oppose it. He assured that his team would remain vigilant to ensure free and fair primaries, noting that the direct primary system eliminates the risk of delegate manipulation.
In addition to his political ambitions, Adamu expressed concern over the state of Lafia, the capital city. He criticized previous administrations for failing to prioritize its development, describing it as still resembling a “glorified local government headquarters.”
Adamu’s remarks come amid growing speculation about the 2027 governorship race in Nasarawa State, where political dynamics and zoning debates continue to shape the contest.
