By Samson Obande,  Lafia

Governor Abdullahi Sule has charged candidates of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Nasarawa State to prioritize unity and teamwork as the party formally received INEC acknowledgement slips for the 2027 general elections.

The Governor met with the candidates on Tuesday at the Government House, Lafia, during the presentation of the slips which formally recognized them by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

While explaining the purpose of the INEC document, Governor Sule said it confirms INEC’s acceptance of the candidates and also allows them to verify names for ballot printing.

He, however, shifted focus to the task ahead, urging candidates to work as a team.

“It is the teamwork that will give us victory. If you have members of House of Assembly and you don’t have a governor, you will understand how bad it is. 

I’m begging you in the name of God, don’t get involved in anti-party. When you are campaigning, campaign for APC,” he said.

Governor Sule urged the candidates to campaign on the record of his administration, noting that every constituency has benefited from government projects.

He also linked the state’s prospects to the performance of the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying the reforms had provided resources for development in the state.

The Governor commended the spirit of sportsmanship among aspirants, citing Lafia North where Hon. Lazarus Tanko stepped down and supported the eventual flag bearer. He announced an immediate donation of N2 million to Tanko in recognition.

Governor Sule said campaigns for the President and National Assembly begin Wednesday, while campaigns for the State Assembly will commence on September 9. 

He said the APC’s approach of “consultation and empowerment” would be more impactful than rallies alone, especially at a time citizens need support.

The Governor set a clear target for the party: winning all 24 seats in the Nasarawa State House of Assembly.

“I will be the happiest human being on earth if all our 24 members are members of House of Assembly in Nasarawa State. I pray that we just remain together as a team, no sycophancy, and we will win all our elections,” he said.

In a vote of thanks, Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Muhammad Adamu Oyanki, pledged the Assembly’s total support for the 2027 project, describing lawmakers as a “rubber stamp” for development.

He also assured that the Assembly would work to ensure Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada succeeds Governor Sule, and urged members from the Northern Zone to ensure the Governor’s return to the Senate.

Earlier, APC State Chairman, Dr. Aliyu Bello, applauded aspirants who stepped down for unity, describing it as the spirit needed for victory. 

“This election is not a do or die. By the grace of God we will win all the 24 seats in the State House of Assembly,” he said.

The event marked the formal commencement of APC’s mobilization for the 2027 general elections in Nasarawa State.