Senator Mohammed Onawo, who represents Nasarawa South Senatorial District, has resigned from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and joined the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), where he plans to contest the 2027 Nasarawa State governorship election.
Onawo announced his defection during a press conference in Lafia on Wednesday. He said he left the ADC because of what he described as manipulation and a lack of internal democracy during the party’s governorship primary election.
The senator said his decision came after extensive consultations with political leaders, associates and other stakeholders across Nasarawa State.
Onawo was elected to the Senate on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2023 before later joining the ADC.
He accused the ADC of conducting an unfair governorship primary, saying the process lacked transparency and fairness.
According to him, “This move is driven by the need for a new platform that aligns with my vision of inclusive governance, grassroots development and unity in Nasarawa State.”
Describing the primary election as a “sham,” Onawo alleged that the results were manipulated.
“I am not a forensic expert, but by physical examination, the whole result of the governorship primaries of the ADC was written by one person.
“There was no deliberate effort by the party to address the anomaly; I felt such a place is not a home I should remain.
“I was ready to accept the outcome and work for the party if there was a level playing ground for the candidates. But the result was manipulated with impunity,” he stated.
The senator said his experience in the ADC was worse than what made him leave the PDP.
He also announced his decision to contest the 2027 governorship election under the APM, expressing confidence in his ability to lead the state.
“I have served our people diligently in the Senate, and I believe the time has come to take that service to a higher level.
“After due consultation, I have decided to pitch my tent with APM and to answer the call to contest for the governorship of Nasarawa State in 2027,” he said.
Onawo said Nasarawa needs a leader who understands the state’s diversity and can unite people regardless of their ethnic or religious background.
He promised to run an inclusive administration focused on development and improving the lives of residents if elected.
Highlighting his political experience, the senator said he had served as a two-term member of the House of Representatives, Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly and now as a senator.
“As a two-term member of the House of Representatives, former Speaker of the State House of Assembly and now a senator, I have built alliances across the state and beyond.
“Therefore, I have all the experience and credentials to be the next governor of the state,” he said.
He added that his administration would prioritise inclusive governance, grassroots development and prosperity for all residents.
Onawo also appealed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that the 2027 general election is free, fair and credible.
He said transparent elections are important for strengthening democracy and allowing the people to freely choose their leaders.
