Former NASENI Chief Mohammad Sani Haruna Enters Nasarawa Governorship Race Despite Official Party Endorsement

Professor Mohammad Sani Haruna declares for Nasarawa governor, challenging the APC consensus and focusing on industrial growth and merit based leadership.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 30, 2026, 4:15 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Leadership

A Strategic Challenge to Party Consensus

The political landscape in Nasarawa State has shifted significantly following the formal declaration of Professor Mohammad Sani Haruna for the 2027 governorship. Haruna, the former head of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure, announced his ambition during a Western Zone Mega Rally held in Keffi. This move comes as a direct defiance of Governor Abdullahi Sule’s previous adoption of Senator Ahmed Wadada as the consensus aspirant for the All Progressives Congress. Haruna’s entry suggests a deepening divide within the party leadership, as several high profile stakeholders have already voiced their opposition to the Governor’s preferred choice.

Internal Dissent Among Party Power Brokers

The adoption of Senator Wadada has sparked a broader crisis of confidence among the state’s political elite. Former Inspector General of Police Abubakar Adamu, who also harbors gubernatorial ambitions, has publicly rejected the endorsement of Wadada. Furthermore, the immediate past governor, Tanko Al Makura, has criticized the selection process, citing a lack of broad consultation before the decision was made. This internal pushback from established party figures indicates that the road to the May 21, 2026, primaries will be marked by intense negotiation and potential shifts in loyalty as the APC seeks to maintain its hold on the state.

A Platform Built on Industrial Merit

Haruna is positioning his candidacy on a foundation of professional competence and technical expertise gained during his tenure at NASENI. During his declaration, he reminded supporters that his previous public service appointment was the result of a rigorous merit based process, where he emerged successful among 67 candidates. He argues that this background makes him uniquely qualified to oversee the judicious utilization of state resources. By emphasizing merit over political sentiment, Haruna aims to appeal to a demographic of voters who prioritize administrative transparency and proven public sector performance.