By Rayyanu Bala

Since Governor Abdullahi Sule convened a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja with all APC governorship aspirants, some people in the opposing camp have continued to push a misleading narrative. They keep telling their followers that although Governor Abdullahi Sule may influence the APC primaries, he will not have the same impact in the general elections. This line of thinking is shallow and does not stand up to any serious or logical scrutiny.
This illogical thinking on the surface is correct. In a democracy, leadership is not inherited, appointed, or dictated by a sitting governor. The ultimate decision belongs to the people. Voters not governors, not party leaders determine who takes over power. That is the essence of democratic governance.
But let’s be honest with ourselves: politics doesn’t operate in a vacuum. While Governor Sule cannot decide the next governor of Nasarawa State, it would be unrealistic to pretend that his voice, preferences, and political weight do not matter.
Incumbency is a powerful factor everywhere in the world. Whether in Nigeria, the United States, or the United Kingdom, sitting leaders often shape the direction of their parties. They influence internal party decisions, support preferred candidates, and mobilize structures built over years in office. So when people say Sule has “no right” to influence succession, they are technically correct but politically naïve.
Within the All Progressives Congress (APC), like in any political party, endorsements matter. Networks matter. Political goodwill matters. A sitting governor naturally becomes a rallying point for party members, stakeholders, and even undecided voters. That influence is not illegal or undemocratic it is part of how politics works.
More importantly, influence is often tied to performance. Governor Sule’s track record over the past eight years cannot simply be ignored. His administration has made visible strides in infrastructure, governance, and economic development in Nasarawa State. Beyond politics, his background in both the private and public sectors has shaped a leadership style that many consider pragmatic and results-driven.
These achievements form a political capital of their own. When an incumbent performs, just the way Sule has done well, the electorate may be more inclined to trust his judgment or at least give serious consideration to candidates he supports. That doesn’t mean they will blindly follow, but it certainly tilts the playing field.
Yes, Governor Sule cannot handpick his successor in a general election. The ballot remains in the hands of the people. But to deny him the right to support, promote, or politically back a candidate is to ignore the reality of democratic politics.
In the end, elections are a mix of free choice and political influence. Sule’s endorsement will not be the final word but it will be a voice that carries weight. We have a system where incumbency always played a role.
At this junction, some may be quick to ask why certain incumbent leaders fail to secure a second term? In many cases, when an incumbent cannot win re-election or fails to successfully anoint a successor after completing his tenure, it suggests he may not have earned the trust and confidence of his people through tangible performance.
However, in the case of Abdullahi Sule, it would be difficult for anyone, in good conscience, to argue that he is not a performer. He has taken significant steps to earn the trust of the people of Nasarawa State.
In view of the above analysis therefore, Governor Abdullahi Sule has demonstrated that he is capable of anointing his successor. Anyone who thinks otherwise is entitled to his opinion, but time will ultimately tell.