By Sam Israel JP
The much-anticipated governorship primary election of the All Progressives Congress APC scheduled for Thursday, 21st May 2026, is not just another political exercise; it is a defining moment in the democratic journey of Nasarawa State and indeed Nigeria as a whole. As political actors, delegates, supporters and stakeholders prepare for this crucial event, one important message must echo across every community: peace must prevail before, during and after the primary election.
Politics should never be seen as a do-or-die affair. Elections are temporary, but the peace, unity and development of the state remain permanent priorities. At the end of the exercise, one candidate will emerge victorious while others will naturally concede defeat. This is the beauty of democracy. Victory must therefore be celebrated with humility, while defeat should be accepted with maturity and statesmanship.
The people of Nasarawa State are watching closely and expecting an exercise that will be peaceful, transparent, credible and rancour-free. Nobody desires violence, destruction or bloodshed in the pursuit of political ambition. The state has made significant progress over the years and no political contest should reverse the gains already achieved through unity and coexistence.
Supporters of various aspirants must understand that political opponents are not enemies. They are brothers and sisters pursuing the same democratic objective through different political interests. Provocative statements, inflammatory comments and acts capable of causing unrest should be completely avoided. Words spoken in anger can ignite unnecessary tension capable of threatening the peace of communities.
The youths, in particular, must resist every attempt by desperate politicians to use them as instruments of violence. Young people should remember that after elections, politicians may reconcile and continue their relationships, while innocent youths are left to suffer the consequences of violence, arrests, injuries and even loss of lives. No political ambition is worth sacrificing the future of the youths of Nasarawa State.
Parents and guardians also have a major role to play during this sensitive period. They must advise their children to remain law-abiding and avoid any gathering or activity capable of causing trouble. Political differences should never destroy family values, friendships or community harmony. Whoever eventually emerges as governor still remains a citizen of Nasarawa State and must govern for the benefit of all.
Traditional rulers, community leaders, spiritual fathers and respected elders must also rise to the occasion by preaching peace and restraint among their followers. Their voices carry enormous influence and moral authority. At a time like this, the state needs wise counsel, unity and collective commitment towards peaceful coexistence.
Religious leaders across churches and mosques must continue to pray for peaceful conduct before, during and after the primary election. Faith institutions remain critical pillars in preserving social stability. The message from every pulpit and prayer ground should centre on tolerance, patience, understanding and respect for democratic processes.
Security agencies equally have a constitutional responsibility to ensure law and order throughout the exercise. They must remain professional, neutral and proactive in dealing with any attempt to disrupt the peace. Every sign of violence or unrest must be swiftly addressed before it escalates into a major crisis. The safety of lives and property must remain paramount.
Political leaders and aspirants themselves owe the people a duty to caution their supporters against violence and political intolerance. Leadership is not only about winning elections but also about demonstrating responsibility and patriotism. Any politician who truly loves Nasarawa State must place peace above personal ambition.
As the APC delegates prepare to make their choice, many political observers believe that Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu remains one of the strongest and most credible aspirants in the race. His experience as a senator representing the western senatorial zone at the National Assembly has positioned him as a leader with deep understanding of governance, legislation and grassroots politics.
Senator Wadada has consistently distinguished himself through effective representation, empowerment initiatives and commitment to the welfare of his people. His political maturity, accessibility and leadership style have earned him wide acceptance across different parts of the state. Many supporters strongly believe that he possesses the administrative capacity, political experience and unifying character needed to move Nasarawa State to greater heights.
More importantly, the endorsement and confidence reportedly extended to Senator Wadada by the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. Abdullahi Alhaji Sule and major political stakeholders across the nooks and crannies of the state have further strengthened the belief that he represents continuity, stability and purposeful leadership. At a time when the state requires visionary governance, many see him as a bridge between experience, competence and inclusive development.
However, regardless of personal preferences or political affiliations, the ultimate interest of the people must remain the peace and progress of Nasarawa State. Democracy can only thrive where peace exists. Development can only flourish where unity is protected. Violence, hatred and division can never produce meaningful progress.
As the APC primary election approaches, all eyes are on Nasarawa State. Let the exercise serve as an example of political maturity and democratic excellence. Let aspirants compete with ideas and vision rather than hostility and bitterness. Let supporters embrace tolerance instead of confrontation.
At the end of the day, no victor can govern a divided state, and no loser benefits from chaos. Peace remains the greatest victory that every citizen must protect. Nasarawa State belongs to all of us, and its peace, unity and development must never be sacrificed on the altar of politics.
Sam Israel is the Senior Special Assistant SSA on media to Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu.
