From Abel Zwanke, Lafia
The member representing Awe/Doma/Keana Federal Constituency, Hon. Abubakar Hassan Nalaraba, has formally withdrawn from the Nasarawa State governorship race and declared his intention to contest the Nasarawa South Senatorial seat under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Addressing journalists in Lafia on Thursday, Nalaraba said his decision followed wide consultations with stakeholders, party leaders, and supporters across the state.
“It is with a deep sense of gratitude, responsibility, and respect for the collective interest of our party, the APC, and the future of our dear state that I announce my withdrawal from the governorship contest,” he said.
He explained that the move was not due to a lack of capacity but was guided by the need to preserve unity within the party.
“This decision is not borne out of fear, weakness, or lack of capacity, but is guided by wisdom, political maturity, loyalty, and a sincere commitment to preserving the unity, peace, and stability of our great party and the state,” Nalaraba stated.
The lawmaker declared total support for Governor Abdullahi Sule’s preferred governorship candidate, Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, pledging to mobilise his political structure for his victory.
“As a loyal party man, I align myself fully with the decision of His Excellency, Governor Abdullahi A. Sule, who has endorsed Distinguished Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada. I hereby declare my total and unwavering support for his candidacy,” he said.
“I will deploy my entire political structure and mobilise my supporters across wards and local government areas to ensure his success at both the primary and general elections.”
Nalaraba called on his supporters and associates to rally behind the party’s direction, stressing that politics should be driven by sacrifice and collective interest.
“Politics must never be reduced to a contest of personal interest alone. It must remain a platform for sacrifice, loyalty, understanding, and collective advancement,” he added.
He commended Governor Sule for his leadership style, noting that it has promoted unity and inclusiveness within the party.
“His leadership has continued to demonstrate that politics should be guided by dialogue and mutual respect for the collective interest of the people,” he said.
Declaring his new ambition, Nalaraba said he had resolved to contest for the Nasarawa South Senatorial seat following appeals from stakeholders in the zone.
“I have listened carefully to the voices of my people and the appeals from stakeholders across the Nasarawa Southern Senatorial Zone. I have resolved to offer myself for service by running for the Senate to represent my zone,” he said.
“This decision reflects my continued commitment to serve, represent, and advance the cause of our people at a higher legislative level.”
He expressed confidence in securing victory, noting that his campaign structure across the 147 wards, 13 local government areas, and three senatorial zones remains intact.
“This decision does not mark the end of our movement; it represents a strategic redirection of our collective efforts toward another avenue of service,” he said.
Nalaraba also appreciated members of his campaign organisation, women and youth groups, as well as traditional and religious leaders for their support.
“Your encouragement, prayers, and sacrifices will not be forgotten,” he said.
He urged his supporters to remain committed and work towards ensuring victory for the APC in the state.
“Let us continue to place the unity, peace, and progress of Nasarawa State above all else,” he added.
