A former Executive Vice Chairman of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Mohammed Haruna, has declared his readiness to contest the governorship primary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Nasarawa State, insisting he will not step down for any “anointed” aspirant.
PrimeTimes Nigeria reports that Haruna’s declaration comes amid growing support within the APC for Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, who is reportedly backed by Governor Abdullahi Sule as a preferred successor.
At a consultative meeting in Keffi, Haruna told stakeholders that his political future would be determined by their collective decision.
“If you are resolved that we shall accept the verdict and withdraw from this struggle, I will vote ‘aye’. If the decision of this meeting is that we shall go to the primaries, that is not my problem. That is the essence of this meeting,” he said.
After deliberations, stakeholders from the three senatorial zones unanimously urged him to remain in the race.
Accepting their decision, Haruna said, “Your verdict has determined our next line of action, and I hereby accept to contest the primaries, and we will be having our rally on Wednesday.”
Haruna said his wide consultations were driven by loyalty to his supporters and respect for internal democracy. He also highlighted his contributions to the formation of the APC.
“I provided financial support to the Congress for Progressive Change and the establishment of the party… I started my APC from the national,” he said.
The former NASENI boss also raised concerns over the state’s succession arrangements.
“We gave a blanket cheque that the governor could select anyone… but the situation has changed,” he said.
Reaffirming his commitment to party rules, Haruna said he would accept the outcome of a transparent process.
“If the primaries are free, fair and transparent, we will accept whatever Allah has decided as the verdict,” he stated.
Dismisses Withdrawal Rumours
He also dismissed claims that he had stepped down from the race.
“Some people spread all sorts of rumours… I am demonstrating my faith by doing the right thing. The essence of this meeting is to hear from you,” he added.
Stakeholders at the meeting justified their support on grounds of zoning equity and Haruna’s track record.
A party member, Suleiman Amgbashi, said, “The governor has a preferred candidate, but that does not automatically make the candidate the choice of everyone… there must be a contest.”
Another stakeholder, Mohammad Bello, described Haruna as the most impactful aspirant, while Rev. Benjamin Baka said his public service record sets him apart.