By Isa Galanbi

The recent so-called “survey” titled “Nasarawa 2027: Measuring The Early Groundwork Of APC Governorship Aspirants In Lafia” by Oriola A. Opeyemi and appeared in Nasarawa Mirror, pretends to offer insight into the political atmosphere of Nasarawa State, but in truth, it reads more like a poorly disguised promotional brochure for a few handpicked aspirants.

First, let’s address the obvious, this survey is neither scientific nor representative. Limiting a supposed evaluation of governorship prospects across Nasarawa State to just Lafia Local Government is intellectually lazy and politically dishonest. Lafia, while the state capital, does not hold a monopoly on political relevance, and no serious political analysis can ignore other 12 LGAs in the state such as: Keffi, Karu, Akwanga, Nasarawa Eggon, Wamba, Nasarawa, Toto, Doma, Obi, Keana, Kokona and of- course Awe, where voter strength and political mobilization are equally, if not more, decisive.

Second, visibility through posters and signboards does not equate to political viability. The writer’s shallow metric counting posters around roundabouts and roadside markets is laughably and outdated in the age of grassroots mobilization, digital influence, and policy-driven campaigns. Anyone with deep pockets can plaster walls with posters. It says nothing about their competence, political networks, or grassroots loyalty.

The real insult to readers’ intelligence, however, lies in the so-called “public recall” analysis, which conveniently elevates Senator Wadada, but regrettably down play his popularity. The question is: Where are the survey’s sample size? How many people were surveyed? What was the methodology? There is no mention of age groups, voter demographics, or even the number of respondents. In its absence, this is nothing but anecdotal propaganda masquerading as data aimed at promoting some aspirants.

Also telling is the deliberate exclusion of key APC power players and technocrats whose influence in Nasarawa politics is far from negligible. This raises some facts: This survey was funded, directed, and influenced by some aspirants. The emphasis on “Walin Lafia”, “Baraden Nasarawa”, appears more like a branding campaign than objective commentary.

Furthermore, Senator Wadada’s “strongest public recall” is acceptable and evident but to say that the real contest may likely be between the AG and IG” reeks of premeditated bias. It’s not analysis at all.

Lastly, Oriola’s conclusion that “all five aspirants are already visible in the political space” is a lazy generalization. Visibility is not strategy. And number of posters and billboards are not endorsement.

In a time when citizens demand real leadership, clear visions, and genuine grassroots engagement, this survey distracts from substance and drowns in optics. The people of Nasarawa deserve better than this brand of opportunistic pseudo-analysis designed to serve the ambitions of a select few.

Let this be clear: the road to 2027 is wide, and no amount of poster-counting will determine its course.