By Francis Nansak

The electorate in Nasarawa North Senatorial District are preparing to elect a successor to the late Senator Godiya Akwashiki, who passed away in 2024 after representing the zone.

The ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, may be banking on the machinery of incumbency, but political observers say only a solid majority can guarantee victory in Saturday’s bye-election.

The contest is expected to be close, with little room for ambiguity if contestants acknowledge one fact: Hon. Labaran Maku’s acceptance across the zone overlaps the ambition of the APC candidate, Barr. Halilu Envulanza.

In Nasarawa State, the name “Maku” represents a seasoned grassroots politician known for relationship-building and providing solutions to communities. That reputation puts him in the same bracket as Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, who is widely seen as a leading contender for the governorship after Governor Abdullahi Sule.

In contrast, Dr. David Ombugadu’s recent political repositioning has painted him as a contender driven by personal ambition, with analysts noting his support base remains thin even within his kindred.

But Labaran Maku has built a reputation in words, character, and communality that extends beyond Nasarawa North. Defeating him in a free election, without the deployment of force or rigging, will be difficult for any opposition party.

Therefore, the outcome of Saturday’s Senate bye-election will test the promise made by APC leader and Governor Abdullahi Sule to maintain peace and fairness. To avoid chaos and allegations of rigging, and to allow a truly free process without interference, many stakeholders argue that Maku, seen by Akwashiki’s family as the anointed heir apparent, should be allowed to take over. That, they say, would give APC strategic balance ahead of the 2027 general election.

Already, the state is unhappy with the outcome of the primary, where the IGP Adamu camp has refused to admit defeat. It would be injurious for the APC to downplay the wishes of the electorate, a move that may hamper Governor Abdullahi Sule’s clean chances of becoming the next senator representing that zone.

In the case of Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu, the current governorship flag bearer, he stands a better chance due to his grassroots support and commitment, making him a candidate to beat.