By Rayyanu Bala

Last Friday, social media platforms and various online spaces were abuzz with reports about a closed-door meeting held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The meeting allegedly involved Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, the National Chairman of the APC, Dr. Umar Ganduje, and possibly President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Although no official details were released, sources familiar with the meeting revealed that discussions centered on the potential defection of Senator Wadada to the APC. If all goes according to plan, Senator Wadada is expected to formally rejoin the APC by next month.

However as whispers grow louder in Nasarawa state about the purported return of Senator Ahmed Wadada to the All Progressives Congress (APC), political watchers in the state are beginning to dissect the importance of such a move. While yet to be officially confirmed, if this defection materializes, it would represent not just a return to familiar grounds for Wadada, but also significantly improves the Fortune of APC in the state and potentially reshape Nasarawa’s political future, particularly as 2027 draws nearer.

Senator Wadada, who currently represents Nasarawa West Senatorial District, is no stranger to the APC. He was a prominent member of the party before he exited due to internal disputes, a move that led him to clinch his senatorial seat under the banner of the Social Democratic Party (SDP). His victory, despite the dominance of APC in the state, was a political desterity that underscored his grassroots appeal, independent political structure, and widespread influence.

There is indeed, no disputing the fact that Senator Wadada’s popularity is rooted in his consistent engagement with the people and his ability to command support across ethnic, religious, and partisan lines. His success in the 2023 elections was not merely a reflection of dissatisfaction with the action of APC’s leadership, but a testament to his personal brand and political acumen.

If Senator Wadada indeed returns to the APC, the party stands to gain substantially in both optics and substance. First, it will signify reconciliation and unity within the state’s political elite, a crucial factor in consolidating APC’s hold ahead of what promises to be a fiercely contested 2027 election. Second, it will revitalize APC’s grassroots machinery in Nasarawa state as Senator Wadada will brings with him loyal supporters who had previously crossed party lines to stand by him.

Moreover, Wadada’s defection would likely strengthen the APC’s credibility as a “big tent” party capable of accommodating divergent interests. It will send a message of maturity and strategic foresight.

Strategically, Wadada’s return to the APC will help balance the power dynamics in Nasarawa State, as the party will gain a significant advantage and easy journey to victory.

With Governor Abdullahi Sule nearing the end of his second term, the race for succession will equally become simple.
undoubtedly, Senator Wadada’s reintegration into the APC fold would give the party an edge in candidate selection, campaign coordination, and voter mobilization.

Of course, Senator Wadada’s entrance into the APC will naturally unsettle some aspirants. However, as a party, the APC must engage them constructively through dialogue and reconciliation. As Governor Abdullahi Sule rightly noted during the grand reception held in honor of SSG Labaran Magaji, there must be realignment and a spirit of forgiveness as we count down to the 2027 elections.

In the final analysis, Senator Wadada’s return to the APC is more than a personal political decision—it is a potential game-changer for the party in Nasarawa State as it reflects the dynamic nature of politics where strategic alignments often determine electoral outcomes.

APC could find in Wadada a revitalized force capable of delivering resounding victories in 2027.