Politics
2027: Recalibration in Adamawa as Political Gladiators Return to the Drawing Board Over Dr. Namdas’s announcements to join the guber race
2027: Recalibration in Adamawa as Political Gladiators Return to the Drawing Board Over Dr. Namdas’s announcements to join the guber race
By: Dr. James Bwala
In the dynamic world of politics, every declaration can spark a cascading effect, reshaping alliances, re-evaluating strategies, and igniting aspirations. This is particularly true in Adamawa State, where the political landscape is undergoing significant recalibration following Dr. AbdulRazak Namdas’s announcement of his intention to run for the governorship in the upcoming 2027 elections. As a seasoned politician, journalist, and public servant, Dr. Namdas has already begun to influence the strategies of fellow political gladiators, causing them to reevaluate their positions and possibly reconsider their ambitions.
Dr. AbdulRazak Namdas is not a newcomer to the political scene; he has embarked on a promising career that has seen him serve as the Northeast representative at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), develop a deep understanding of governance, and represent the interests of his constituents with gravitas during his tenure as a member of the House of Representatives. His previous experience as a spokesperson to former Governor Boni Haruna equips him with unique insights into the workings of Adamawa’s political machinery, making him a formidable candidate in the eyes of many.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/lent-and-ramadan-tribute-to-the-jagaban-of-burgu-and-the-jagoran-arewa/
With the backdrop of the Ramadan season, Dr. Namdas’s declaration took place during an iftar gathering—a moment steeped in personal reflection and collective community engagement. This timing was strategic, as it not only allowed him to present his vision for Adamawa amidst a gathering of supporters but also symbolized unity and purpose. However, the implications of his announcement go far beyond mere rhetoric; they resonate through the entire political spectrum of the state, sending shockwaves across various parties and stakeholders.
The immediate reaction among political pundits and analysts has been one of heightened awareness. The development has prompted a sense of urgency among other political figures who had previously thrown their hats into the ring. The prospect of competing against a candidate of Dr. Namdas’s caliber can dissuade even the most determined aspirants, reshaping the trajectory of the gubernatorial race. This recalibration underscores the principle of political gravity—where credible candidates attract attention and resources while simultaneously prompting others to reconsider their strategies or withdraw altogether from the race.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/lent-and-ramadan-tribute-to-the-jagaban-of-burgu-and-the-jagoran-arewa/
Dr. Namdas’s existing clout within both state and federal political spheres cannot be understated. His connections with influential politicians and party leaders create a robust support network that enhances his candidacy. This backing places him at an advantage, as other prospective candidates may struggle to match the level of support and recognition he commands. In addition, Namdas’s track record of dedicated public service lends him credibility, which is crucial in a politically diverse environment like Adamawa State. His ability to unite factions within the party and appeal to a broad audience makes him a candidate that not only bolsters his party’s—the All Progressive Congress, APC’s—chances but also elevates the political discourse in the state.
As Dr. Namdas steps into the arena, he brings with him an agenda that resonates with the pressing needs of Adamawa’s citizens. From addressing the issues of poverty and unemployment to enhancing infrastructure and education, his platform is expected to reflect both innovative solutions and a commitment to grassroots participation. Voters are increasingly seeking candidates capable of offering practical policies over mere promises, and Dr. Namdas appears poised to meet these demands head-on.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/lent-and-ramadan-tribute-to-the-jagaban-of-burgu-and-the-jagoran-arewa/
The backlash to Dr. Namdas’s announcement has not been uniformly negative toward his competitors; rather, it prompts a recalibration of their own strategies. Candidates who were once confident now find themselves entangled in a competitive landscape marked by uncertainty. Former contenders must either elevate their platforms, broaden their appeal, or risk becoming footnotes in what could become a historic run for governorship. This phenomenon is essential in fostering an energizing political environment, as it can encourage a deeper engagement with constituents—a crucial factor as the campaign progresses.
It is also pertinent to acknowledge the role of social media in amplifying Dr. Namdas’s impact. In today’s political climate, digital platforms serve as battlegrounds for narratives and public opinion. His adept use of these tools allows him to effectively communicate his message, engage with voters in real time, and mobilize grassroots support. Indeed, by harnessing social media, he can galvanize a young electorate hungry for change, aligning their aspirations with his vision for the state.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/lent-and-ramadan-tribute-to-the-jagaban-of-burgu-and-the-jagoran-arewa/
While the current political landscape in Adamawa has been shaken, the art of recalibration extends beyond the immediate response to Dr. Namdas’s announcement. Political entities are forced to analyze their long-term strategies meticulously and consider how coalition-building could emerge as a necessity. It may lead to unexpected alliances among those who perceive themselves as potential rivals. Such dynamics may reshape party lines and challenge entrenched power structures, creating opportunities for fresh voices to emerge in the process.
Dr. Namdas has effectively positioned himself as a major contender in a slowly evolving story that is set to unfold dramatically leading up to the 2027 elections. His pedigree as a political gladiator should not be underestimated, as it carries with it a narrative of resilience, leadership, and strategic foresight. The call for recalibration extends beyond mere numbers; it encompasses the very essence of political competitiveness, portraying how the emergence of a strong candidate can topple preconceived notions of who holds the leverage in the electoral process.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/lent-and-ramadan-tribute-to-the-jagaban-of-burgu-and-the-jagoran-arewa/
Going forward, the political tides in Adamawa will likely see rival factions reassessing their stakes while also attempting to navigate a rapidly changing landscape fueled by the charisma and reputation of Dr. AbdulRazak Namdas. The question remains: will they be able to adapt effectively, or will they remain stuck in their old paradigms, unable to respond to the new reality defined by a candidate with the potential to unite the state under a common vision?
As spectators, we must watch carefully as this narrative unfolds. Political gladiators on all sides should now grapple with the implications of Dr. Namdas’s entry. For the people of Adamawa, this recalibration signifies a period of hope and possibility—an invitation to engage more deeply with their democratic processes and demand accountability from those vying for public office. It serves as a reminder that in politics, the stakes are exceedingly high, and the landscape is ever-changing, driven by the aspirations of leaders and the will of the people.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/lent-and-ramadan-tribute-to-the-jagaban-of-burgu-and-the-jagoran-arewa/
The road to the 2027 governorship in Adamawa State is set to be a rollercoaster of strategic maneuvering, ideological battles, and grassroots mobilization, all sparked by the declaration of intentions from one determined man. Dr. AbdulRazak Namdas stands at the forefront of this pivotal moment, challenging both historical precedents and paving new paths toward a more inclusive and progressive political future for Adamawa State. The unfolding drama promises excitement, developments, and perhaps a transformation in the way politics is perceived and enacted in the region. Indeed, as the adage goes, “politics is war without bloodshed,” and in the case of Adamawa State, the battle lines have been drawn—now, it is up to the gladiators to determine their fate in this ever-evolving saga.
* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
2027: Recalibration in Adamawa as Political Gladiators Return to the Drawing Board Over Dr. Namdas’s announcements to join the guber race
Politics
Consensus Imposition of Mining Magnate Seriki As Governorship Candidate By The Governor Threatens Gradual Implosion in Kwara APC
Consensus Imposition of Mining Magnate Seriki As Governorship Candidate By The Governor Threatens Gradual Implosion in Kwara APC
By: Bodunrin Kayode
The culture of consensus which has enveloped the All Progressive Congress (APC) party in kwara is threatening the very unity among party stalwarts even as some aspirants have vowed to oppose any imposition of candidates by Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq.
Trouble actually started when Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, initiated underground moves to anoint the controversial mining magnate, Abdulfatah Seriki-Gambari, popularly known as “Yahaya Seriki”, as his preferred candidate to replace him ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Political watchers in the state have hinted that the move is already generating anger and tension with influential stakeholders and other aspirants engrossed in fierce internal battles over the control of the party and what they described as the faulty succession moves by the governor despite having an array of more experienced aspirants equally eager to throw in their hats into the ring for the coveted office.
However, this latest development comes despite previous controversies surrounding Seriki’s mining activities in Kwara State, including calls by members of the Kwara State House of Assembly last year seeking the revocation of some of his mining licences over alleged irregularities and concerns raised by local communities.
Multiple high-ranking APC sources hinted that the Governor had already concluded arrangements to impose Seriki as the party’s consensus governorship candidate following a series of strategic meetings held in Abuja last weekend.
A notice for an emergency meeting circulated to Governorship aspirants last week signed by the Kwara APC Publicity Secretary, Abdulwaheed Babatunde, fixed the meeting for 12 noon last Thursday at the Kwara State Banquet Hall in Ilorin.
With this development, sources close to the government house say that some of the aspirants expected to step down include: Yakubu Danladi; Engr. Olufemi Sanni; Maliaha Ahman-Pategi; Muhammed Belgore and Ahmad Mahmud.
Another source hinted though sadly that many of the aspirants now expected to withdraw from the race were originally encouraged by Governor Abdulrazaq himself to join the contest to create a level of legitimacy for Seriki’s emergence.
It is believed that some stalwarts in the party had earlier accused some forces of narrowing the search for the APC governorship ticket to aspirants from Kwara Central Senatorial District to please certain people who believe it’s there right to stay in power for over 20 years without making way for the other senatorial zones.
They also believe that a large chunk of northern and southern kwara have been taken over by banditry and chaos as such they may not be able to contest against what they described as the central district’s perceived electoral advantage over the rest of the state.
Over 20 traditional rulers and subjects have moved out of their domains to safe havens in the south and Northern zones of kwara making their political strength weakened to a dangerous level of submission to the will of the Governor.
Consensus Imposition of Mining Magnate Seriki As Governorship Candidate By The Governor Threatens Gradual Implosion in Kwara APC
Zulum Lauds Peaceful Conduct of APC House of Reps Primaries in Borno
By: Michael Mike
Governor of Borno State, Babagana Umara Zulum, has commended the peaceful and orderly conduct of the All Progressives Congress primary election for the House of Representatives across the state.
Zulum gave the commendation on Saturday shortly after supervising the APC primary election for the Gubio, Kaga and Magumeri Federal Constituency held in Magumeri town.
Hundreds of party supporters from the three local government areas gathered at the venue to welcome the governor and APC officials overseeing the exercise.
Speaking with journalists after the primary, Zulum said the process was conducted in line with the Electoral Act 2026 and the constitution of the APC, which allows aspirants to adopt consensus arrangements.
“We are here to witness the primary election in line with the Electoral Act 2026 and the APC constitution, which allows for consensus arrangements among aspirants,” the governor stated.
He explained that although three aspirants initially indicated interest in contesting for the party’s House of Representatives ticket, two later withdrew in support of the incumbent lawmaker, Hon. Usman Zannah.
“We have three contestants vying for the position of the House of Representatives, but fortunately, under the consensus arrangement as enshrined in the constitution of our party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), two of the aspirants stepped down for the incumbent member, Hon. Usman Zannah,” he said.
According to the governor, party members and stakeholders from the constituency affirmed their support for the consensus candidate during the exercise.
Zulum congratulated Hon. Zannah on his emergence and praised the aspirants who stepped down — Hon. Shettima Shehu and Alhaji Mohammed Sanda Ngamdu — describing their action as a demonstration of unity, sacrifice and political maturity.
“I want to extend my congratulations to the candidate and the others who stepped down for him,” he said. “I also want to express my appreciation to all APC supporters and the people of Borno State for ensuring a peaceful voting process.”
The governor stressed that the consensus arrangement adopted by the party was voluntary and not designed to deny any aspirant the opportunity to contest.
“Under the consensus arrangement, the government of Borno State and the party have never taken a decision to stop anybody from contesting,” he explained. “Consensus is a voluntary option, and anybody who does not wish to go for a consensus election has the right to participate in a direct primary.”
Chairman of the APC Primary Elections Committee for Gubio, Kaga and Magumeri Federal Constituency, Hon. Yuguda Saleh Vungas, also confirmed that party stakeholders agreed on consensus as the mode of primary election.
He commended Governor Zulum for creating an enabling environment for the smooth and peaceful conduct of the exercise.
Through a voice vote, APC members from the three local government areas unanimously affirmed Hon. Usman Zannah as the party’s consensus candidate for the House of Representatives seat.
Officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission and APC national headquarters monitored the exercise.
Governor Zulum was accompanied by the APC consensus gubernatorial candidate, Engr. Mustapha Gubio, Secretary to the State Government Bukar Tijani, and Acting Chief of Staff, Dr. Babagana Mustapha Mallumbe.
Zulum Lauds Peaceful Conduct of APC House of Reps Primaries in Borno
Politics
APC 2027: Will consensus enforce anti-party as a result of collapses in internal democracy?
APC 2027: Will consensus enforce anti-party as a result of collapses in internal democracy?
By: Dr. James Bwala
The All Progressives Congress (APC) stands at a critical crossroads as it grapples with the ramifications of its recent consensus candidate selection process. The emergence of a so-called “consensus” candidate, rather than being a symbol of unity, has instead revealed deep fractures within the party’s internal democratic structures. The widespread discontent among aspirants who feel sidelined and silenced exposes a troubling trend: the collapse of internal democracy in the APC, which threatens to unleash anti-party sentiments that could have disastrous consequences in the 2027 general elections.
The APC’s current trajectory—marked by opaque decision-making and authoritarian imposition—will inevitably engender internal rebellion unless urgent, meaningful reforms are undertaken to restore genuine participatory democracy within the party.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/political-party-system-why-are-we-members-if-few-will-decide-our-fate-through-consensus/
To begin with, internal democracy is the lifeblood of any political party, particularly one that claims to govern while representing diverse constituencies. Democracy within a party ensures that aspirants for various offices have a fair chance to contest based on merit, vision, and popular support. It fosters legitimacy, accountability, and cohesion, enabling the party to present a unified front during elections. Unfortunately, the APC’s recent handling of the consensus candidate arrangement starkly contrasts with these principles. Instead of a transparent and inclusive consultation process, many aspirants recount being coerced into signing undertakings to accept predetermined outcomes—decisions orchestrated by the party leadership without genuine input from rank-and-file members.
Such practices betray the foundational democratic ethos the APC purports to uphold. One cannot help but view the forced acquiescence and symbolic “consensus” as an endorsement of dictatorship cloaked in a veneer of unity. This top-down imposition disenfranchises the very individuals who are supposed to embody and promote the party’s ideals. The covert nature of communications—aspirants resorting to WhatsApp conversations to express their grievances out of fear of surveillance—underscores a climate of mistrust and intimidation. A healthy political party thrives on open dialogue; a party that compels its members into silence through fear is fundamentally broken.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/political-party-system-why-are-we-members-if-few-will-decide-our-fate-through-consensus/
The consequences of this erosion of internal democracy are neither abstract nor distant. A party whose members feel betrayed or marginalized risks fracturing from within. The APC’s hundreds, if not thousands, of disgruntled aspirants represent a reservoir of latent anti-party sentiment that, if left unaddressed, will manifest during the high-stakes 2027 general elections. These aggrieved members might either disengage entirely, reducing voter turnout and weakening the party’s grassroots machinery, or worse, sabotage the party from within by supporting opposition candidates, defecting to rival parties, or fomenting unrest.
Historical precedents within Nigerian politics illustrate that when internal democratic practices collapse, the resulting alienation among party members translates directly into electoral defeats. Political parties that prioritize authoritarian control over inclusivity invariably lose the confidence of their base. The APC, as the ruling party, must understand that its legitimacy does not rest solely on incumbency or executive power but fundamentally on the grassroots support nurtured through honest and participative political processes.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/political-party-system-why-are-we-members-if-few-will-decide-our-fate-through-consensus/
The justification frequently offered by party elites for such consensus arrangements—that they are necessary for “unity” and to “avoid divisive primaries”—is deeply flawed. True unity arises from mutual respect and equitable competition, not from imposed decisions that silence dissent. Primaries may be contentious but are essential to test ideas, vet candidates, and build momentum. By circumventing primaries and opting for handpicked consensus candidates without buy-in, the party betrays its members’ trust and stifles political innovation.
It is crucial to recognize that internal democracy is not merely an ideological luxury but a practical necessity for the APC’s long-term sustainability. In the absence of credible internal mechanisms for selecting candidates, the party’s leadership risks alienating vital cadres, eroding morale, and undermining the collective commitment that fuels election mobilization. The current state, described by aspirants as “dictatorship at its peak,” may secure short-term compliance but sacrifices enduring loyalty. Such loyalty cannot be bought with patronage or enforced with intimidation; it must be nurtured through respect, transparency, and fairness.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/political-party-system-why-are-we-members-if-few-will-decide-our-fate-through-consensus/
To avert the looming crisis, the APC must embark on comprehensive reforms that reestablish internal democracy. First, there must be a clear, public, and binding framework for candidate selection that ensures fairness, transparency, and inclusiveness. Party elders and leaders should act as facilitators rather than dictators, enabling aspirants to compete on an equal footing. Second, grievance mechanisms must be strengthened to allow aspirants to voice concerns without fear of reprisal, ensuring that disputes are resolved internally rather than festering underground. Third, digital transparency tools can be employed to document all stages of candidate selection, building trust and verifying that processes are respected.
Additionally, the party leadership should engage in sincere dialogue with disgruntled aspirants, recognizing their value and addressing their concerns through concrete concessions and roles within the party structure. Reconciliation efforts must go beyond mere public relations exercises and demonstrate true commitment to inclusivity.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/political-party-system-why-are-we-members-if-few-will-decide-our-fate-through-consensus/
The APC faces a defining moment that demands urgent attention to its internal democratic deficits. The narrative of consensus candidacy, as currently practiced, signals a dangerous slide into authoritarianism that alienates vital segments of party membership. Without immediate and genuine reforms, the party risks sowing the seeds of anti-party rebellion that could severely weaken its electoral prospects in 2027 and beyond.
Internal democracy is not simply a procedural formality—it is the foundation upon which the APC’s legitimacy and future success depend. To uphold its role as Nigeria’s leading political force, the APC must restore democratic norms within its ranks or face the consequences of a divided, disenfranchised membership turning against it from within. Failure to do so will not only compromise its electoral fortunes but also undermine the very democratic ideals it professes to champion.
* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
APC 2027: Will consensus enforce anti-party as a result of collapses in internal democracy?
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