Former Senate President, Ahmed Lawan and Nicholas Mutu, two of the longest-serving lawmakers in the National Assembly, are seeking re-election in the 2027 general elections after nearly three decades in parliament.
Both lawmakers have served uninterrupted since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999 and would complete 28 years in the legislature by June 2027 if re-elected.
While Lawan moved from the House of Representatives to the Senate in 2007, Mutu has remained in the lower chamber since 1999.
Lawan, who represents Yobe North Senatorial District, has already obtained his expression of interest and nomination forms on the platform of the All Progressives Congress.
The former Senate President served in the House of Representatives between 1999 and 2007 before moving to the Senate, where he later emerged as Senate President between 2019 and 2023.
According to reports, Lawan has sponsored over 200 bills since joining the National Assembly in 1999.
Constituents Divided Over Lawan’s Record
Opinions among constituents remain divided over Lawan’s continued stay in office.
A resident of Machina, Abdullahi Mohammed Nasir, who spoke with Daily Trust, described the senator as a committed leader who prioritised peace and stability.
“Unlike many politicians who pursue power at all costs, Senator Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan believes the safety and peace of his people come first. That is one quality many people admire about him,” he said.
However, critics argued that his long years in office had not translated into enough development for Yobe North.
A resident of Nguru Local Government Area, Suleiman Ubaliyo, asked, “What exactly has Ahmed Lawan accomplished beyond posters and billboards?”
Human rights activist Khalid Yusuf Tebo also urged voters to critically assess Lawan’s performance before supporting another term.
Despite criticisms, supporters said Lawan had contributed significantly to infrastructural development, environmental advocacy and youth empowerment in the district.
Tijjani Ubali, popularly known as Coach, said, “Leadership should be judged by impact and commitment, not by political rhetoric.”
Another supporter, Ahmad Gash Umar, described Lawan as a grassroots politician focused on empowerment rather than public display of wealth.
“He may not be the kind of politician who throws money around, but he invests in people through jobs, empowerment and support programmes,” he said.
Mutu Eyes Eighth Term
Nicholas Mutu, who represents Bomadi/Patani Federal Constituency of Delta State, has also obtained his nomination form for the 2027 election.
Mutu, first elected in 1999, previously served as Chairman of the House Committee on Niger Delta Development Commission between 2009 and 2019.
Several constituents and activists criticised Mutu’s decision to seek another term, insisting that younger politicians should be given opportunities.
Human rights activist Israel Joe described the situation as “worrisome.”
“He has been there since 1999, and in my view, his performance is below average. Yet, he is still contesting the 2027 general election, and some people are still clamouring for him,” he said.
Another constituent, Mayor Timi Ogobiri, alleged that the lawmaker was more interested in “political business than the political development of the Bomadi/Patani Federal Constituency.”
“As constituents, we have tried for Nicholas Mutu, and we think it is the right time for him to take a bow,” another resident, Africa Prezilagha Orutu, said.
A source close to Mutu, however, dismissed criticisms against the lawmaker, stressing that there was no tenure limit for legislators.
The source also argued that what mattered was quality representation and urged critics to verify claims about his legislative record.