By Rayyanu Bala

As political permutations continue to dominate discussion ahead of the general elections, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in Nasarawa state Dr. Aliyu Bello, has sought to calm growing speculation over alleged substitutions of candidates, insisting that no such action has taken place.
Addressing concerns that have unsettled some party faithful, Bello dismissed the rumours as baseless, maintaining that the party’s processes remain intact and transparent.
“No candidate has been changed; nobody has changed anybody. If anybody told you that he has been changed, let him bring evidence. It’s just speculation,” he declared.
According to him, the party has already completed the necessary documentation, with nomination forms issued based on names forwarded by the APC National Secretariat. He stressed that those same names would be uploaded, leaving no room for arbitrary substitutions.
“You can’t substitute anybody because we gave them the form to fill based on the name submitted from the APC national secretariat, and their names will be uploaded based on that,” Bello explained.
Beyond addressing the immediate controversy, the state party chairman appealed for patience and unity among party members who may feel disappointed by the outcome of the nomination process. He reminded them that public service extends beyond elective positions and that the government offers numerous opportunities to contribute meaningfully.
“There are more opportunities that exist within the government; there are many things on the table. The government is too large; by the time we form the government, we will look for them,” he assured.
Perhaps the most striking aspect of Bello’s intervention was his reflection on the nature of leadership. In a political environment often defined by intense lobbying and power struggles, he attributed leadership not to political godfathers or influential office holders but to divine providence.
“We will continue to appeal; it is only one person that will occupy a position of leadership at a particular time. Leadership comes from God; it is only God that makes leaders, not Aliyu Bello, not Governor Abdullahi Sule and APC but God,” he said.
Those familiar with Nasarawa politics often describe Bello as a politician who rarely shies away from difficult conversations. Supporters regard him as someone willing to state his position plainly, regardless of whose interests may be affected. His latest remarks are likely to reinforce that perception, as he directly confronted rumours within his own party while urging members to place collective interest above individual ambition.
Whether addressing internal party affairs or speaking on broader political issues, Bello’s public engagements frequently reflect a preference for straightforward communication. His comments on leadership also serve as a reminder that, beyond political calculations, humility, patience and faith remain values he believes should guide those seeking public office.
As the APC in Nasarawa state continues preparations for the general elections, Bello’s message is unmistakable: speculation should give way to facts, disappointed aspirants should remain committed to the party, and leadership, ultimately, is determined by God rather than by human influence.