By Rayyanu Bala

As Nasarawa State looks toward the 2027 gubernatorial election, one name resonates across political circles, business communities, and grassroots alike. The name is: Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu. His political trajectory, humility, loyalty, and developmental outlook make him not only a viable candidate but a natural successor to Governor Abdullahi Sule.

The story of Senator Wadada’s relationship with Governor Sule is a model of sportsmanship and statesmanship. In the 2019 APC governorship primaries, both men contested vigorously for the party’s ticket. Despite the narrow margin of defeat, Senator Wadada displayed a rare brand of maturity and political civility. He was the first to congratulate Governor Sule, a demonstration of deep sense of party loyalty and personal integrity that is uncommon in today’s politics.

Senator Wadada did not stop at congratulating Governor Sule; from the Lafia Square venue of the primaries, he proceeded to the private residence of former Governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura to pledge his loyalty and express his satisfaction with the outcome of the primaries.

Even during the process of the primaries, Senator Wadada stood out as a stabilizing force. When some aspirants contemplated truncating the process over alleged manipulation, it was Wadada who intervened to preserve the integrity of the primaries. He placed the interest of the party and the state above personal ambition, a decision that endeared him to leaders and party faithful alike.

Following the primaries, Senator Wadada did not retreat into bitterness or opposition. Instead, he led the campaign that delivered Governor Sule’s victory in 2019 general elections.

Even the most ardent critic of Senator Wadada will attest to his exceptional performance and acknowledge that he fulfilled his responsibilities to everyone’s satisfaction during the 2019 and 2023 election.

Indeed, this singular act underscored Senator Wadada’s commitment to collective progress and unity within the APC.

Since then, he has remained one of Governor Sule’s most loyal allies, consistently showing him respect both as an elder brother and as the sitting governor.

Together, Governor Sule and Senator Wadada have championed the cause of good governance and sustainable development in Nasarawa State. Their shared vision to transform the state into an investment-friendly, economically vibrant hub has yielded significant dividends.

Like Governor Sule, Senator Wadada is cosmopolitan in outlook, deeply connected with national and international business networks, and respected across political divides.

What distinguishes Senator Wadada is his blend of political experience and business acumen. Like Governor Sule, he is investor-friendly and understands the language of development.

His ability to attract investors and facilitate partnerships will be instrumental in sustaining and expanding the progress Nasarawa has witnessed under Governor Sule’s leadership. With his wide connections in the business community and in the corridors of power in Abuja and beyond, Wadada is well-positioned to bring more federal projects and private investments to Nasarawa State.

Furthermore, Senator Wadada embodies continuity, continuity of vision, of policy direction, and of leadership. His proven loyalty, cosmopolitan orientation, and inclusive approach to governance align perfectly with the foundation Governor Sule has laid. He represents a bridge between experience and innovation, tradition and transformation.

As 2027 approaches, Nasarawa State deserves a leader who not only understands its journey but has been an integral part of it. Senator without doubt Wadada fits that description effortlessly.

His story is one of loyalty rewarded, service sustained, and leadership refined.

For Nasarawa State, the choice of Senator Wadada is not just strategic but progressive, and inevitable.

Indeed, among all the APC governorship aspirants today, none possess the pedigree and temperament to succeed Governor Abdullahi Sule quite like Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu. He stands as a natural successor.