ADC Senator Mohammed Onawo Defects to APM, Announces 2027 Nasarawa Governorship Bid

The senator representing Nasarawa South Senatorial District, Mohammed Onawo, has resigned from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and allied himself with the Allied Peoples Movement (APM). He made the declaration during a press conference in Lafia on Wednesday, stating his intention to run for the Nasarawa State governorship in the 2027 election.

Onawo explained that his decision followed what he described as manipulation and a lack of internal democracy during the ADC’s governorship primary election in the state. He said he consulted extensively with political leaders, associates, and other stakeholders across Nasarawa before reaching his conclusion.

According to the lawmaker, the primary exercise lacked transparency and fairness, making it impossible for him to remain in the party. He characterized the process as a “sham,” alleging that the results were manipulated.

“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,” Onawo said. He added that, although he is not a forensic expert, a physical examination of the primary results showed they appeared to have been written by a single individual, with no effort by the party to correct the anomaly.

He stated that he would have accepted the outcome and worked for the ADC if there had been a level playing field for all candidates. Instead, he felt the manipulation was carried out with impunity, prompting hision, leading him to leave the party.

Onawo noted that his experience leaving the ADC was even more disappointing than the circumstances that caused him to exit the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) earlier in his career.

The senator announced that he will contest the 2027 Nasarawa State governorship election under the banner of the APM, expressing confidence that his Senate service, legislative experience, and leadership qualities equip him to govern the state effectively.

“I have served our people diligently in the Senate, and I believe the time has come to take that service to a higher level,” he said. “After due consultation, I have decided to pitch my tent with the APM and answer the call to contest for the governorship of Nasarawa State in 2027.”

He emphasized that Nasarawa needs a leader who understands the state’s ethnic and religious diversity and can unite its people. If elected, he promised to build an inclusive administration focused on development and improving the lives of all residents.

Highlighting his political journey, Onawo pointed out that his years in public service have prepared him for the governor’s office. He has served two terms in the House of Representatives, acted as Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, and currently serves 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 asserted.

He added that his administration would prioritize inclusive governance, grassroots development, and prosperity for every resident of Nasarawa State. Onawo also appealed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that the 2027 general election is free, fair, and credible, stressing that transparent elections are vital to strengthening democracy and allowing citizens to choose their leaders freely.