From Abel Zwanke, Lafia
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Dr. Musa Muhammed Maikaya, a governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Nasarawa State, has commended former Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ibrahim Balarabe Abdullahi, for his developmental legacy and people-focused leadership in Toto Local Government Area (LGA).
Maikaya said Balarabe’s tenure as Speaker was marked by visible infrastructural development, empowerment programmes, and sustained grassroots engagement that positively impacted Toto LGA and its residents.
He made the remarks on Monday while hosting members of the Central Working Committee and campaign organisation of the former Speaker at his residence in Toto. The delegation was led by the group’s Central Coordinator, Hon. Danladi Katakpa, alongside ward coordinators and other APC stakeholders.
According to Maikaya, his decision to engage the former Speaker and seek collaboration was informed by Balarabe’s political influence, leadership capacity, and enduring connection with the people at the grassroots.
“I have interacted with many political groups, but I am yet to see one as focused and determined as the structure Rt. Hon. Balarabe has built across Toto Local Government,” Maikaya said.
He added that Balarabe demonstrated courage and selflessness by using his office to uplift constituents and connect them with opportunities provided by successive governments.
Maikaya disclosed that both leaders had resolved past political differences in the interest of unity, peace, and development in Toto LGA and Nasarawa State.
“Rt. Hon. Balarabe and I are working in the interest of Governor Abdullahi Sule. We have put the past behind us to pursue a common goal that will benefit our people,” he stated.
The APC governorship aspirant noted that Balarabe’s leadership record and political structure remained a major reason for his continued support base in Toto LGA.
“It would be unrealistic to ignore Balarabe’s political structure in Toto. His capacity has been demonstrated over the years, and the results are visible,” Maikaya said.
He formally declared his intention to succeed Governor Abdullahi Sule, calling on the people of Toto LGA to support his aspiration, stressing that grassroots support was crucial for electoral success.
Maikaya also expressed appreciation to Governor Sule for his support to the former Speaker during his time in office, while pledging continued loyalty to the governor’s leadership and policies.
“I commend the governor for promoting peace and initiating developmental projects that have positively impacted Toto Local Government,” he added.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Hon. Danladi Katakpa described Maikaya as a bridge-builder, thanking him for what he called his magnanimity and inclusive approach to politics.
Katakpa said the meeting was convened at the instance of Rt. Hon. Balarabe Abdullahi, underscoring the importance the former Speaker attached to Maikaya’s political engagement.
“When Rt. Hon. Balarabe gives an assignment, he expects results. Our political direction is clear, and we believe collaboration will strengthen our chances,” Katakpa said.
Also speaking, former Executive Chairman of Toto LGA and Secretary-General of the Balarabe Central Working Committee, Prince Nuhu Adamu Dauda, described the meeting as historic and unprecedented in the area.
“This level of political engagement has not been witnessed before in Toto LGA. It shows seriousness and commitment,” Dauda said.
The meeting was attended by former and serving local government chairmen, state and local government appointees, and other APC stakeholders from Toto LGA.
