Fatima Abdullahi, a female governorship aspirant in Nasarawa State, has explained her decision to contest the 2027 governorship election, despite Governor Abdullahi Sule’s endorsement of Senator Ahmed Wadada as his preferred successor.
Fatima, who obtained her expression of interest and nomination forms on Monday, said she remained confident of victory, insisting that the race would be decided by the people.
Governor Sule had earlier presented Wadada, who represents Nasarawa West in the 10th Senate, as his choice for the governorship and reportedly introduced him to President Bola Tinubu, a move that has generated discontent among other aspirants.
Speaking with journalists shortly after picking her forms in Abuja, Abdullahi dismissed concerns over the governor’s endorsement, expressing faith in the party’s primary process.
“I am very confident that I will win. It’s not about going very far; it’s about winning,” she said.
On the issue of consensus, she acknowledged the governor’s right to support a candidate but stressed the need for a level playing field.
“The governor, as he said, has the right to point to his preferred candidate. However, he has also assured all aspirants and the people of Nasarawa State that there will be a free and fair election.
“With direct primaries, there is little room for malpractice. We are on ground and will ensure that the process is credible,” she added.
Abdullahi also highlighted her nearly two decades of experience in the private sector, describing it as a strong foundation for leadership.
Meanwhile, Governor Sule has also joined the race for the Nasarawa North Senatorial seat, having obtained his expression of interest and nomination forms on Monday.
The forms were picked on his behalf at the Abuja Continental Hotel by a former Secretary to the Nasarawa State Government, Timothy Anjide who was accompanied by top government functionaries.
Anjide said the governor was persuaded to contest by popular demand.
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