Abubakar Nalaraba (APC- Awe/Doma/Keana Federal Constituency) has formally withdrawn from the 2027 Nasarawa State governorship race.

Mr Nalaraba announced his withdrawal from the governorship contest at a news conference in Lafia on Monday.

He explained that the decision followed wide consultations with All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders, constituents, and elders across the state after Governor Abdullahi Sule announced Senator Ahmed Wadada as his preferred successor.

“Our decision was guided by wisdom, political maturity and loyalty to the APC and the collective interest of Nasarawa.

“I am aligning with the preferred successor of the governor in the spirit of sportsmanship toward ensuring that our great party wins the election in the state in 2027.

“As a loyal party person, I align myself totally with the decision of the governor. I hold the unity and stability of the APC above my personal ambition,” he stated.

 Mr Nalaraba stressed that his withdrawal was not out of fear or lack of capacity, but a sacrifice to preserve the unity and progress of the party.

 “At critical moments of every political consideration, sacrifice and corporate interest of the state must prevail over personal ambition,” he said.

He pledged to deploy his political structure and mobilise supporters across the 147 electoral wards, 13 local government areas and three senatorial zones to ensure Mr Wadada’s victory at both the primary and general elections.

The lawmaker, however, declared his intention to contest for the Nasarawa South senatorial seat.

He explained that his senatorial ambition was in response to calls from stakeholders in Nasarawa South, given his track record of achievements as a two-term member of the House of Representatives.

 “I have listened carefully to the voices of my people and the appeal from stakeholders. I have resolved to offer myself for service to run for the seat of the senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to represent my zone,” he said.

He noted that his campaign structure would remain intact as a movement of friendship and family and would now be redirected toward the senatorial contest.

He thanked members of his campaign organisation, coordinators, women and youth groups, traditional and religious leaders, and supporters for their loyalty and sacrifices during his governorship bid. 

(NAN).