The political landscape in Nasarawa State witnessed another major realignment on Wednesday as Senator Mohammed Onawo, representing Nasarawa South Senatorial District, dumped the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) and formally declared his ambition to contest the 2027 governorship election.
Speaking at a press conference in Lafia, the senator said his decision followed what he described as a deeply flawed and manipulated governorship primary conducted by the ADC in the state.
Onawo, who was elected to the Senate on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2023 before later joining the ADC, said extensive consultations with political stakeholders, elders and supporters across Nasarawa informed his latest defection.
“This move is driven by the need for a new platform that aligns with my vision of inclusive governance, grassroots development and the unity in Nasarawa State,” he said.
The lawmaker launched a scathing attack on the ADC governorship primary, describing the exercise as a “sham” and claiming it was even worse than the circumstances that forced him to leave the PDP.
“I am not a forensic expert, but by physical examination, the whole result of the governorship primaries of the ADC was written by one person.
“There was no deliberate effort by the party to address the anomaly; I felt such a place is not a home I should remain.
“I was ready to accept the outcome and work for the party if there was a leveled playing ground for the candidates. But the result was manipulated with impunity.”
Announcing his governorship bid, Onawo said his years of legislative experience had prepared him to lead the state.
“I have served our people diligently in the Senate, and I believe the time has come to take that service to a higher level.
“After due consultation, I have decided to pitch my tent with APM and to answer the call to contest for the governorship of Nasarawa State in 2027.”
The senator said Nasarawa needed a leader capable of uniting its diverse ethnic and religious groups, pledging to run an inclusive administration focused on development and shared prosperity.
He argued that his political pedigree gives him an edge over other aspirants.
“As a two-term member of the House of Representatives, former Speaker of the State House of Assembly and now a senator, I have built alliances across the state and beyond.
“Therefore, I have all the experience and credentials to be the next governor of the state.”
Onawo also promised to deliver an all-inclusive government if elected and urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure the conduct of a free, fair and credible governorship election in 2027.
