By Sam Israel JP.

The political atmosphere in Nasarawa State was electrified Thursday 7th August, 2025 as the people of the Western Senatorial Zone, in their thousands and under the distinguished leadership of former Governor and Senator, His Excellency Abdullahi Adamu, converged on the Government House in Lafia with one unified voice: a call for equity, justice, and the zoning of the 2027 governorship to their zone. In what can only be described as a show of strength, solidarity, and historical consciousness, the call resonated deeply across the state, drawing attention to a legacy of rotational leadership that has kept Nasarawa united.

This bold demand is not new—it is rooted in historical precedent. The West, the South, and the North have all tasted the governorship in that order. Senator Abdullahi Adamu from the West blazed the trail as the first executive governor. He was succeeded by the South’s Alhaji Aliyu Akwe Doma and later Alhaji Tanko Almakura. The North is currently represented by Governor Abdullahi Alhaji Sule, who is completing his constitutionally mandated eight-year tenure.

The principle of zoning, therefore, is not a novel invention but a tested and trusted mechanism that has maintained political balance and fostered inter-zonal harmony. As Senator Adamu eloquently stated, “What goes around comes around.” If we are to be fair, then the West must return to the helm in 2027.

But zoning alone cannot guarantee good governance. It is not enough to merely demand power—it must be matched by credibility, competence, character, and a
vision for the future. In this regard, Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu, (Sarkin Yakin Keffi) and (Magajin Danjin Lafian Bari- Bari) who also serves as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Accounts towers above the crowd. He is not just a candidate from the West; he is the candidate Nasarawa needs.

A seasoned legislator, a successful entrepreneur, a bridge-builder, and a man of the people, Senator Wadada brings to the table a wealth of experience that is both diverse and relevant. From his days in the House of Representatives to his current role in the Senate, his performance has been marked by legislative excellence, constituency development, and people-oriented policies.

What sets Senator Wadada apart is his unmatched grassroots connection. From Toto to Keffi, from Nasarawa to Karu, his name inspires hope and confidence. The people know him not only as a political leader but also as a philanthropist whose interventions have transformed lives, empowered youth, and supported the vulnerable.

At a time when leadership is being questioned across Nigeria, Nasarawa State cannot afford to gamble with its future. Senator Wadada’s impeccable reputation, zero tolerance for corruption, and unwavering commitment to service make him the best prepared to lead the state into its next chapter.

His track record of managing diverse interests makes him a symbol of unity in a state of many tribes, religions, and cultures. He has built bridges across party lines, ethnic divides, and generational gaps—qualities that are essential for the peace and stability of Nasarawa State.

Moreover, Senator Wadada is a man of ideas. His blueprint for economic development, industrialization, digital inclusion, education reform, and agricultural transformation aligns with the aspirations of the youth and the vision of modern governance. He understands the urgency of creating jobs, revamping infrastructure, and repositioning Nasarawa as a competitive subnational economy.

In the recently concluded stakeholder visit, the loudest ovation at the Aliyu Akwe Banquet Hall was not only for the zoning advocacy but also for the silent hope that Senator Wadada would carry the torch. The chants, the songs, and the smiles on the faces of the people all pointed to one fact: the people are ready, and they know who they want.

It is significant that Governor Abdullahi Sule, a product of zoning himself, has publicly pledged support for the rotation principle. This further legitimizes the West’s call and opens the door for a leader of Senator Wadada’s calibre to emerge without rancor or resistance.

While other aspirants may lay claim to loyalty or long service, Senator Wadada stands out for his results. His ability to deliver tangible outcomes is evident in his legislative interventions, his robust constituency outreach, and his intelligent articulation of policy at the national level.

Let it be clear: this is not just about electing a governor from the West. It is about electing a governor for all of Nasarawa State—a leader who will not be tribal or sectional, but just, inclusive, and visionary. That leader is Senator Ahmed Wadada.

His humility, courage, and unwavering dedication to public good have earned him the respect of elders, the admiration of women, and the love of youth. He listens, he learns, and he leads—hallmarks of the kind of leadership that transforms societies.

The challenges ahead are many—from economic uncertainty to security threats—but with a leader like Senator Wadada at the helm, Nasarawa can navigate these waters with confidence. His track record shows he is not afraid of tough decisions if they are in the interest of the people.

In 2027, Nasarawa has a date with destiny. The people of the West have made their case, history is on their side, and justice demands it. But within that zone, the choice must be clear and strategic. Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu is not just the best man from the West—he is the best man for the job.

Let the conversations begin, let the campaigns take shape, but above all, let the truth be told: with Senator Wadada, Nasarawa State is in safe, competent, and visionary hands.

Sam Israel is the Senior Special Assistant on media to Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu, senator representing the western senatorial zone, Nasarawa State.