By Rayyanu Bala

Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu, in an interview with Arise TV on Wednesday, stated that he is not afraid of going into a primary with anyone ahead of the 2027 election. This statement reflects a position of confidence and, arguably, a statement of fact.
Some people have been led to believe that direct primaries, as outlined in the Electoral Act, would pose an impediment to Senator Wadada’s success in the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries. However, from any perspective, Wadada possess a greater capacity to win the primaries than any other aspirant. He has the qualities and resources needed to give any contender a strong challenge.
Indeed, Senator Wadada’s remarks during the interview were not a mere show of confidence; they are consistent with a political career built over the years. Avoiding contests has never been part of his approach. Whatever critics may say, fear of competition is not a label that fits his record.
It is important to understand that Wadada is not a newcomer trying to find his footing in partisan politics. He has been active for over two decades, dating back to 2003 when he first contested for the House of Representatives. Since then, he has participated in multiple political contests, learning valuable lessons from both victory and defeat. Those who have followed his trajectory know that he has never been insulated from the challenges of internal party battles.
Take 2019, for example. That was not a comfortable outing. He entered the governorship race without the backing of the sitting governor at the time, a factor that can significantly influence outcomes in Nigerian politics. Yet, he did not withdraw. He contested, fought through the process, and emerged second. This alone challenges the notion that he avoids difficult primaries.
If Wadada was willing to face such odds then, without establishment backing, why would he suddenly be “afraid” now, especially when he has the support of the sitting governor?
Politics, by its nature, is competitive. Wadada understands better than many that primaries are not tea parties; they are battlegrounds of influence, structure, and persuasion. These are familiar terrains for him. He has been tested repeatedly and has experienced both the highs and lows. Such experiences build resilience and perhaps that is what his statement truly reflects.
Those who believe that direct primaries would be a walkover should understand that confidence alone does not win elections. Success is a combination of structure, alliances, and public perception. It would therefore be difficult to argue, in good faith, that Wadada is stepping into unfamiliar territory or lacks the temperament for intra-party contests.
If anything, his political history suggests the opposite: a candidate who has remained in the game long enough to understand that primaries are not to be feared, but carefully navigated.
In conclusion, Wadada is not afraid of any form of election. His experience has prepared him for the challenges ahead, and he is ready to face any opponent, regardless of their perceived strength or resources.