By Rayyanu Bala

Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu is one politician who understands an important truth about politics in Nasarawa State. Wadada understood as far back as 2003 that elections are not won only with posters, slogans, or media appearances. He understands that elections are won through relationships, consultations, and respect for the people who shape public opinion at the grassroots level. It is this understanding of politics that has always placed him ahead of others.
His recent consultation tour across the Southern Senatorial Zone of Nasarawa State was not just a routine political visit; it was a carefully organised effort to connect with traditional institutions, party stakeholders, and ordinary supporters ahead of what many believe could become a major political contest in the state during the forthcoming primary elections.
What stood out throughout Wadada’s tour was his emphasis on humility and engagement. In every local government area visited, Wadada paid homage to traditional rulers before meeting with political stakeholders. In Northern Nigeria, traditional institutions remain highly respected, and politicians who ignore them often do so at their own political risk. By seeking royal blessings and promising to protect the dignity of traditional institutions, Wadada clearly sent a message that his ambition would not come at the expense of culture and established authority.
Indeed, the climax of the Southern Zone engagement in Lafia carried both political and symbolic significance. His visit to the Emir of Lafia and Chairman of the Nasarawa State Council of Chiefs, Justice Sidi Bage Mohammed, added weight to the entire exercise. It projected an image of acceptance, maturity, and political seriousness.
Beyond the ceremonies and receptions, however, the bigger issue is the message Wadada is trying to sell to the people of Nasarawa State. He consistently spoke about his “scorecard” and his “Heart Agenda,” which he described as a blueprint for development. Judging from the public response, many people appear to buy into Wadada’s vision for Nasarawa State because it is people-oriented.
One interesting aspect of Wadada’s speeches during the tour was his repeated reference to himself as a “blue-blood politician” — someone who has paid his dues in politics and did not enter the political arena by accident. In many ways, that statement reflects the confidence of a politician who sees himself as experienced, tested, and prepared for higher responsibility.
However, Wadada also understands that political experience alone is never enough. The people will judge leaders by their ability to improve lives, create opportunities, strengthen infrastructure, and provide inclusive governance. According to his supporters, Wadada has consistently demonstrated commitment to these responsibilities since 2003.
Citizens of Nasarawa State today are more politically aware and increasingly interested in results. Wadada’s presentation of his scorecard during the tour was aimed at reinforcing his position as a result-oriented leader.
His promise to continue and sustain the legacy of Governor Abdullahi Sule was also meant to demonstrate that the current administration has laid a foundation worth building upon. Wadada’s pledge for continuity attracted positive reactions from people in the various communities visited. The people of Nasarawa State have already witnessed the progress made under the leadership of Engr. Abdullahi Sule, and whenever Wadada promised to continue from where the governor would stop, many supporters expressed excitement and hope.
Citizens of the state believe that Wadada is capable of building on Sule’s achievements through introducing fresh ideas, stronger policies, and practical solutions to pressing economic and social challenges.
The peaceful and successful completion of the Southern Zone consultations is certainly a political advantage for Wadada. The reception organised by the “Friends Forever” group in Lafia yesterday night at Joy Wonder Pack, further demonstrated that he enjoys visible grassroots support across the Nasarawa South population.
Still, the road ahead remains competitive. Tours and stakeholder meetings are only the beginning. Therefore from what many observers have seen, the forthcoming APC primaries may prove favourable for Wadada. Supporters believe he could emerge victorious with overwhelming votes against his opponents. His widespread engagements across communities may ultimately translate into broader public trust across the three senatorial zones of Nasarawa State.
For now, one thing is clear: Ahmed Wadada Aliyu has entered the governorship race strongly, and his consultation tour has succeeded in keeping his ambition firmly in the public eye.