Governorship Aspirant Faisal Shuaib Withdraws, Backs Wadada

Faisal Shuaib, a prominent APC governorship hopeful in Nasarawa State, announced on Monday that he is withdrawing from the 2027 gubernatorial contest. The decision was disclosed at a press conference in Lafia, a few days after a large rally in the state capital that proceeded despite heavy rain.

Shuaib said his withdrawal follows the endorsement of Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada by Governor Abdullahi Sule as the party’s preferred successor. He explained that the move was the result of extensive consultations with supporters and other stakeholders across Nasarawa. “I gave my word that I would support whoever His Excellency presents as his preferred candidate. That commitment was not meant for easy times alone. Painful as it is, I must honour it,” Shuaib told journalists.

The former Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) framed the decision as an act of public‑service discipline. “Public service is not always about being the loudest voice. It is about consistency, responsibility, and doing the work, even when it is not convenient,” he said.

In the same briefing, Shuaib pledged the full backing of his political structure to Senator Wadada. “I am withdrawing from the contest and throwing my full weight behind Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada. The structure we have built remains strong and ready for the journey ahead,” he asserted.

He thanked his supporters for their loyalty, describing their commitment as “deeply moving,” and urged them to stay united behind the party’s direction. Shuaib also expressed confidence in the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that ongoing reforms are likely to deliver long‑term benefits.

Observers described the atmosphere at the event as emotional, with many supporters and local stakeholders showing visible disappointment at the unexpected development. Shuaib’s withdrawal clears the way for Senator Wadada to consolidate support as the APC’s leading candidate in the upcoming Nasarawa governorship race.