Onawo Dumps ADC for APM, Declares for Nasarawa Governorship Race

Senator Mohammed Onawo, who represents Nasarawa South Senatorial District, has left the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and joined the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), while also declaring his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Nasarawa State.

Speaking at a news conference in Lafia on Wednesday, Onawo said his decision to leave the ADC followed what he described as irregularities and a lack of fairness during the party’s governorship primary election in the state.

The senator, who was elected into the Senate in 2023 on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), later left the PDP for the ADC before making his latest move to the APM.

According to him, the decision was reached after extensive consultations with political leaders, associates and other stakeholders across Nasarawa State.

He said he chose the APM because it aligns with his vision of inclusive leadership, grassroots development and unity among the people of the state.

Onawo criticised the conduct of the ADC governorship primary, describing the exercise as deeply flawed. He claimed the outcome did not reflect a transparent process and alleged that the results were manipulated.

He stated that he was prepared to accept the outcome if all aspirants had been given a fair opportunity to compete, but insisted that the process lacked credibility.

The senator added that the experience within the ADC was even more disappointing than what led to his departure from the PDP.

Announcing his governorship ambition, Onawo said he believes the time has come to extend his public service beyond the National Assembly by seeking the state’s highest office in the 2027 election.

He promised to provide leadership that would unite the various ethnic and religious groups in Nasarawa State, stressing that the state needs a governor who understands its diversity and development needs.

Onawo also expressed confidence in his chances, pointing to his years of public service, which include serving as Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, a two-term member of the House of Representatives and now a senator.

He said his political experience, legislative background and grassroots support have prepared him for the governorship position.

The lawmaker pledged that, if elected, his administration would run an inclusive government focused on improving the lives of residents and delivering development across the state.

He also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that the 2027 general election is conducted in a free, fair and credible manner.