By Rayyanu Bala

Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu’s exit from the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and his return to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has undoubtedly shaken the political landscape of Nasarawa state. However, beneath this political bombshell lies one thing: the end to the insinuations and accusations against Dr. Aliyu Bello, the APC Chairman, of working against the party’s interest.

At the time of writing, a case filed at the Federal High Court in Lafia by certain individuals was still pending. These individuals believed that Dr. Aliyu Bello’s relationship with Senator Wadada, during the latter’s time in the SDP, amounted to anti-party activity. Now that Senator Wadada has officially rejoined the APC, many political analysts are of the view that such accusations no longer hold any ground.

Time and again, both Senator Wadada and Dr. Aliyu Bello have publicly clarified that their relationship is personal and deeply rooted. Built not on political convenience but on a lifelong bond forged during childhood.

For decades, they have shared more than just political ideologies, they share history. They grew up together, walked the same streets, and witnessed each other’s transformation from ambitious youths into political heavyweights. Though their political paths diverged, Wadada worked to become Senator under the SDP, and Dr. Aliyu Bello climbed steadily within the APC to become chairman. Their personal relationship however remained unshaken. It is therefore preposterous to wake up one day and label Aliyu Bello’s actions as anti-party.

Much has been speculated about the so-called “quiet understanding” between Dr. Aliyu Bello and Senator Wadada during the latter’s time in the SDP. Critics of the APC Chairman questioned his loyalty, alleging he maintained covert ties with Wadada. What those critics failed to understand was that Bello’s connection with Wadada wasn’t political opportunism, it was a relationship rooted in shared values and mutual respect.

However, Dr. Aliyu Bello deserves our commendations at this material time, for maintaining party discipline, expanding the APC’s base, and preserving its structural integrity despite internal and external pressures on him. In fact, his ability to bring Senator Wadada back into the APC is one of his most strategic and impactful political moves. It reflects leadership that values long-term strategy over short-term gains.
Senator Wadada’s return to the APC, will on the other hand, significantly strengthens the party’s chances of winning the election in Nasarawa State. This is not merely because of his experience as a legislator, but more so due to his strong grassroots support and his reputation for visionary leadership. While his departure from the SDP may have seemed sudden to some, those who know him well understand it was inevitable. The SDP as it stands now lacked the strategic depth and internal cohesion needed to support his ambition of becoming governor of Nasarawa State in 2027.

Just as any citizen living in Nasarawa State could attest, Wadada’s brand of politics transcends religious and ethnic sentiments. He doesn’t give a damn on one’s religion or tribe when extending his hands of friendship, thus, With the 2027 elections on the horizon, his return to the APC sends strong signals both to governorship aspirants within the APC and to opposition parties that their chances were dimmed.

The PDP and other coalition parties in Nasarawa State remain plagued by internal divisions and an identity crisis, lacking both the strategic clarity and stable leadership needed to stand against the formidable structure Wadada is bringing into APC. His return to the APC will therefore render all contestents in all the political parties inconsequential.

As always, time will be the ultimate judge. But one thing is becoming increasingly clear: the Wadada movement is gaining unstoppable momentum.