Veteran journalist Ayuba Umar, a prominent founder of Nasarawa State and senior member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), announced his withdrawal from the governorship contest, citing principles of fairness, equity and responsible leadership.
Umar used his Facebook account on Tuesday to confirm the decision, saying it followed extensive consultations and personal reflection. He argued that remaining in the race would be politically unfair and morally untenable because he shares the same senatorial district, local government area and constituency with incumbent Governor Engr. Abdullahi Sule.
“The leadership we offer must be consistent and just,” Umar wrote. “If I denounce political imbalance when others benefit from it, I must also reject it when I stand to gain. That is the true test of principled leadership and the responsibility that comes with integrity and accountability.”
The former gubernatorial aspirant recalled that he stepped aside in 2018 to preserve stability, positioning his latest move as another sacrifice for democratic values and public trust. “In 2018, I stepped aside for peace and stability. Today, I step aside again to protect the credibility of the principles that sustain democracy. This is not surrender; it is a reflection of conviction, character and integrity,” he added.
Umar, who recently transferred his political affiliation from the People’s Redemption Party (PRP) to the ADC, has long been identified with calls for balanced representation and zoning within Nasarawa State. His departure reduces the number of ADC contenders and may reshape the competitive dynamics of the race.
The withdrawal underscores ongoing debates about zoning arrangements and equitable power sharing in Nigeria’s sub‑national politics. Observers note that Umar’s stance could influence other candidates to reevaluate their positions on regional balance.
As the contest progresses, the ADC will need to select a replacement candidate or consolidate support behind another party’s nominee. The development highlights the weight that personal convictions and perceived fairness continue to hold in Nigeria’s evolving democratic landscape.
