2027: Power Play, Zoning Tensions Shape Nasarawa Guber Race
2027: Power Play, Zoning Tensions Shape Nasarawa Guber Race
By Ahmed Tahir Ajobe, Leadership News
As the battle for the 2027 governorship in Nasarawa State steadily gathers momentum, our correspondent, Ahmed Tahir, writes that key political actors are positioning themselves amid a complex mix of zoning arrangements, personal influence and grassroots mobilisation
Since the return to democracy in 1999, politics in Nasarawa State has largely revolved around power balancing among its three senatorial districts—North, South, and West. This informal zoning principle, though not legally binding, has become a powerful determinant in deciding who emerges as governor.
Over the years, this delicate arrangement has helped to manage ethnic diversity and political competition in the state, ensuring that no single bloc dominates power for too long.
The current governor, Abdullahi Sule, is from the Northern zone, and by prevailing political calculations, power is expected to shift to the Western zone in 2027. This expectation is already shaping alignments within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Within the APC and beyond, stakeholders are increasingly emphasising the need to respect zoning in order to preserve political stability and party cohesion ahead of the next electoral cycle.
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One of the prominent figures in the unfolding race is Mohammed Adamu, a former Inspector General of Police. Despite lacking a traditional political background, Adamu has built significant grassroots support through medical outreach programmes, distribution of food items, and financial assistance to vulnerable groups.
His campaign style has resonated with many at the grassroots level, particularly women and underserved communities who see his interventions as timely and impactful.
His perceived closeness to the Presidency and strategic alliances within the APC have further strengthened his position. There are also speculations that his ambition enjoys the backing of former governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, a key power broker in the state. Such backing, if consolidated, could provide him with a formidable political structure capable of competing across multiple zones.
