As political activities ahead of the 2027 governorship election gather momentum in Nasarawa State, internal debates within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) over zoning arrangements are increasingly testing party cohesion and exposing emerging fault lines among key stakeholders.
At the centre of the debate is whether the APC should adopt a zoning formula that rotates the governorship among the state’s three senatorial districts. Stakeholders from Nasarawa West Senatorial District, which includes Keffi and adjoining areas, argue that the zone should produce the next governor, having watched Nasarawa North and South occupy the office in recent years. Advocates of zoning insist that rotation promotes equity, inclusiveness and political stability, while preventing the domination of power by any single region.
However, what began as an internal balancing mechanism has gradually evolved into a politically sensitive flashpoint. Some party leaders caution that rigid adherence to zoning could undermine merit, competence and electoral viability, potentially deepening internal divisions if not carefully managed. They argue that zoning must be balanced with acceptability, popularity and the capacity of candidates to win a statewide election.
Governor Abdullahi Sule remains pivotal to the unfolding conversation. While repeatedly affirming his commitment to a free, fair and transparent primary process, the governor has acknowledged that zoning will play a role in shaping the APC’s strategy and maintaining unity ahead of 2027. He has continued consultations across the three senatorial zones but has refrained from making a definitive pronouncement, noting that the party’s position will be communicated at the appropriate time.
In recent meetings, stakeholders from Nasarawa South publicly pledged their loyalty to Governor Sule, assuring him of their readiness to abide by whatever direction he eventually takes on zoning and candidacy. These engagements, presided over in part by former Governor and Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, underscored the efforts of senior party figures to rally members around the governor’s leadership during this sensitive period.
Senator Al-Makura, a two-term former governor and influential APC elder, remains a significant force within the party. However, sources within party structures suggest that he is aligned with positions that question strict zoning prescriptions, placing him at variance with traditional zoning advocates. Political observers note that this has introduced subtle but noticeable tensions between his camp and those closer to the governor over the party’s 2027 strategy.
Analysts warn that failure to resolve zoning disagreements early could trigger fractures within the APC, particularly as aspirants intensify early positioning and mobilisation. With party members across the senatorial districts becoming increasingly vocal about their interests, there are concerns that prolonged internal disputes could weaken party cohesion and create openings for opposition parties.
Governor Sule’s leadership is therefore widely seen as decisive. His eventual guidance on zoning and possible endorsements is expected to determine whether the APC presents a united front or slides into deeper internal discord ahead of the primaries.
Stakeholder consultations are ongoing across the state, with party leaders seeking a broad consensus well ahead of the 2027 election cycle. While Senator Al-Makura’s influence remains considerable, insiders note that his role is now largely strategic and advisory rather than one that directly controls party machinery.
As the APC navigates these politically delicate waters, unity, inclusiveness and strategic leadership will be critical. The unresolved contest between zoning advocates and those prioritising other selection criteria has emerged as the defining issue ahead of the party’s 2027 governorship race. Ultimately, Governor Sule’s decisions on zoning and leadership direction will shape whether the party remains united or enters the election season divided.
Culled from Nasarawa Daily News
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