By Rayyanu Bala

I read with interest the opinion piece authored by Ibrahim Musa Lafia titled “Political Office Isn’t A Birthright, It Is A Trust To Be Earned.” While the writer is well within his democratic rights to express views on the 2027 Nasarawa governorship race, it is important to clarify some assertions that seem to deliberately misconstrue both the character and political journey of Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada.

To begin with, no serious supporter of Senator Wadada has ever claimed that political office is Senator Wadada’s birthright. Rather, the support he enjoys is grounded in years of consistent service, accessibility, and principled leadership. His track record in public service both as a federal lawmaker and now as a senator speaks to the kind of competence and responsiveness the people yearn for. If this popularity is now being mistaken for political entitlement, then it is a misreading of public sentiment.

Regarding zoning, Senator Wadada has never undermined the principle. In fact, he has consistently advocated for inclusive governance and fairness across Nasarawa State. However, zoning should not be used as a political weapon to disqualify credible aspirants, especially in a democratic process where all qualified individuals have the constitutional right to contest. Let the people decide, and let zoning inform dialogue not dictate democracy.

The attempt to portray Senator Wadada’s candidacy as being built on “political romanticism” ignores the serious policy conversations he has initiated and the tangible development projects he has attracted. One of the project he attracted was even commissioned at Kofar Hausa primary and junior secondary school in keffi just last Friday.
Senator Wadada does not only rely on name recognition; he has built schools, empowered youth, supported SMEs, and consistently engaged his constituents, something that not all “aspirants with a track record” can claim with sincerity.

Furthermore, the claim that supporters of Senator Wadada dismiss others as “greedy politicians” is misleading. No official statement or credible Senator Wadada’s supporter has made such sweeping accusations. What we do say and unapologetically so is that leadership should be people-centered, not power-driven. If some are offended by Wadada’s rising popularity and strong grassroots appeal, then the answer is not to throw accusations but to show their own achievements.

Finally, while it is good to call for character, equity, and competence in choosing the next governor of Nasarawa state, one cannot ignore the fact that Senator Wadada exemplifies these qualities. He is not demanding leadership he is earning it every day through performance, humility, and vision.

Yes, let the people decide, but then let us also be fair in how we frame our conversations in our social media space. Yes, leadership is earned, not handed out and by all indications, Senator Wadada is earning it the right way.